Hi Gardener Sandy, I am proudly counted among what has come to be known as an "SOS" (Student of Solomon). What I have learned from being a "SOS" is that all compost is not created equal. From the book "Organic GardenerÂs Composting" by Steve Solomon comes the following: "Many people, including writers of garden books, mistakenly think that the composting ends when the pile cools and the material no longer resembles what made up the heap. This is not true. As long as a compost heap is kept moist and is turned occasionally, it will continue to decompose. "Curing" or "ripening" are terms used to describe what occurs once heating is over." Further explaining: "Rhizobia are not capable of being active in compost piles, but another class of microbes is. Called azobacteria, these free-living soil dwellers also make nitrate nitrogen. Their contribution is not potentially as great as rhizobia, but no special provision must be made to encourage azobacteria other than maintaining a decent level of humus for them to eat Once a compost heap has cooled, azobacteria will proliferate and begin to manufacture significant amounts of nitrates, steadily lowering the C/N. And carbon never stops being digested, further dropping the C/N. The rapid phase of composting may be over in a few months, but ripening can be allowed to go on for many more months if necessary." (See link below: "Curing the Heap"). Those who claim compost is "finished" whenever his or her logic states, should honor the community by explaining exactly where "humus" comes from. It indeed would be of great help if said explanation is of a better caliber than past circle talk that has been offered when such a request manifests. A mixture of both hot and cold composting will provide good quality compost; the deciding factor will forever remain "time". In a pile (cold or hot), in a tumbler, within a lasagna bed, sheet composting, Interbay mulching, or closed anaerobic composting will all provide the same thing, compost; same in fact which too will continue to decompose until humus is achieved. IMO, the time spent working towards whatever goal the gardener/farmer is striving for is the most important part; satisfaction from activity that provides physical participation, gratification for the eyes watching the process, and the delight of reaping what one has sowed is what this is all about to me Blutranes Here is a link that might be useful: Making Superior Compost

Florence, Thank you for telling us about your favorite song. I did a web search and found the version at the link below. What a gorgeous song. This version is by the Canadian songstress and jazz pianist Diana Krall whom I adore. Hope you enjoy listening to Diana singing your favorite song. Anne, its good to see you posting. I hope your new house and garden are bringing you joy. And yes, I did enjoy writing this post. Lots of quiet time alone and a lonely garden, peaceful, calm and yes, a little melancholy. Much like Zephy's favorite song. Peace my rosy friends, Rick Here is a link that might be useful: Diana Krall

Could I make a suggestion? Why not start a whole new thread with "RSVP to Garden Party Oct. 1, 8 to 1" in the subject line. Condense the rest of the info in the message. We're close enough to the date to keep it onscreen with replies and far enough out to give people time to plan. Everyone could RSVP to that one and you wonderful planners would have a better idea of how many people to expect.

I would transition them again....keep them in some filtered sun or bright shade for a day or two, then ease 'em on out again. I hope it isn't as windy down there as it is up here! Josh