Natural decomposition process
The decomposition of organic matter into humus has been taking place for millennia. Wherever vegetation grows and dies, and wherever an animal dies, a natural decomposition process occurs. This process is slow and stable, supporting life in the soil as we know it today. A continuous cycle of life, death, decomposition, and new life is driven by microbes and, of course, earthworms.
Decomposition in nature
Soil, mostly mineral is probably the most complex habitat in which microbes are found. In forest soil, fields, and gardens, microbes live alongside plants, earthworms, insects, and countless other organisms. Dead vegetation enriches the soil with humus through the activity of microorganisms. Dead plants decompose, forming humus, which is extremely important for soil fertility and structure.
Where are microbial concentrations found?
The richest microbial hotspots in soil are found around plant roots—the rhizosphere—where microbes feed on dead plant cells and root exudates. Earthworms are attracted to this zone as a food source, and in turn enrich soil quality by recycling nutrients. All this biological activity around plant roots improves soil structure through the formation of larger soil aggregates, enhancing aeration and drainage, and ultimately promoting better root development.
Another area with high microbial activity is beneath decaying wood. Over 90% of soil microbes live in such concentrated zones, even though they occupy only about 10% of the total soil volume.
Dominant microbes
Thermophilic microbes dominate aerobic composts, generating heat during the decomposition process and anaerobic microbes populate anaerobic composts. In vermicompost, we find a different microbial composition. The microbial community depends on the materials used and various ecological factors.