GoodGym was back at Hoxton Trust Garden, to help manage the compost heaps. Three were already yielding rich compost, which was (relatively!) easy to turn over and mix through.

The 4th compost box was more challenging as it contained a lot of recently cut twigs, branches and other garden cuttings. Maria put in a sterling effort lifting and shifting the matted compost, determined to find rich soil beneath. The insect population signaled hope that the compost was healthy, even if it wasn't ready to use.

Eventually a new strategy was employed - temporarily remove the top layer of fresh twigs, straw, branches, etc into a wheelbarrow to gain access to the middle layer of fractionally more decomposed twigs, straw, branches, etc so as to be able to turn that. All three volunteers joined forces at this stage lifting, removing and turning the organic matter. Unwanted plastic items were removed by way of extra quality control.

With the lower layers of the twiggy compost finally aerated, the material in the wheelbarrow was layered back on. Where possible, the team also broke down twigs to aid the decomposition process.

Great to have the help and company of first timer, Araba. Hope to see you and Maria at another session soon.