Long embraced by organic growers, composting is getting a lot of attention from conventional growers and researchers seeking alternatives to methy bromide and other ag chemicals. The goal of applying agricultural compost is to improve soil health byadding organic matter that contains a diversity of disease competitors, inhibitors, and predators. Elaine Ingham, a microbiologist, soil ecologist, and president of Soil Foodweb in Corvallis, OR, promotes the use of compost as an alternative to methyl bromide. Ingham, also a professor of forest science at Oregon State University, specializes in compost education and testing services. She maintains that over time, adding good compost to soil will allow growers to reduce the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
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