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Composting with Hay: Building Bins and Testing for Herbicide Contamination

Hay provides summer brown material (when greens dominate) and can form compost bins that become compost themselves. Source: farm-spoiled hay or garden center autumn decorations.

Hay Bale Compost Bin

Square outline of bales, second layer on back/sides. Front lower for access. Fill center, turn weekly. Higher walls retain heat. When finished, clip twine, incorporate bale hay into compost. Twine = organic tomato ties.

⚠️ Herbicide Warning

Some hay fields use herbicides harmless to landscaping but damaging to food crops. Test before using on edibles: Mix 20 core samples, blend 2:1 with potting soil. Plant beans in test vs. pure potting soil. If identical at 2-3 true leaves = safe. If stunted = landscaping only.

Hay composting = dual-purpose bins + free carbon, but verify safety for food gardens.

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