Why is windrow composting beneficial?

Windrow composting is beneficial primarily because it maintains aerobic conditions, which are essential for the decomposition process. In windrow composting, organic materials are arranged in long rows (or windrows) to facilitate air circulation. This air movement helps to maintain an oxygen-rich environment, allowing aerobic microorganisms to thrive. These microorganisms require oxygen to efficiently break down organic matter into compost.

The aerobic process generates heat, which not only accelerates decomposition but also helps in pathogen reduction, making the final compost safer for agricultural use. When composting is done in aerobic conditions, the resulting compost is often of higher quality with fewer odors, typically associated with anaerobic processes where decomposition occurs in the absence of oxygen. Therefore, maintaining aerobic conditions is a key advantage of windrow composting that directly impacts the efficiency and quality of the composting process.