In the operation of the organic fertilizer composting machine, the microbial ecological balance is the core factor that determines the stability of the fermentation process and the quality of the fertilizer. A stable microbial ecology can ensure that the fermentation proceeds in an orderly manner and produce nutrient-rich and high-quality organic fertilizer, which is of great significance to the sustainable development of agriculture. Once the microbial ecology is unbalanced, the fermentation may stagnate and the quality of the fertilizer will be greatly reduced.
1. Odorless composting machine microbial community
① Main microbial species
In the composting machine, there are many microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes. Among bacteria, Bacillus can quickly decompose large molecular organic matter; lactic acid bacteria regulate the acidity of the environment in the early stage of fermentation. Fungi are good at decomposing complex substances such as cellulose, such as Trichoderma can effectively degrade lignin. Actinomycetes can produce antibiotics, inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, and maintain ecological stability.
② Mutual cooperation between microorganisms
Microorganisms do not exist in isolation. Bacteria first decompose large molecular organic matter into small molecules to provide substrates for further decomposition by fungi. The acidic environment created by lactic acid bacteria is conducive to inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and creating suitable living conditions for other beneficial microorganisms. This cooperative relationship builds a complex and stable microbial community structure.
2. Factors affecting the balance of microorganisms in composting machines
① Raw material factors
The type and quality of raw materials have a significant impact on the microbial ecology. Raw materials rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can provide sufficient nutrients for microbial growth. However, if the raw materials contain too many impurities or harmful substances, such as heavy metals, they will inhibit microbial activity and destroy the ecological balance in composting machines.
② Temperature factors
Microorganisms are extremely sensitive to temperature. Most microorganisms involved in organic fertilizer fermentation are suitable for growth at 30℃ – 55℃. If the temperature is too high, microbial protein denaturation and enzyme activity will decrease; if the temperature is too low, microbial metabolism will be slow, which will break the ecological balance. For example, in the high temperature of summer, if the composting machine does not dissipate heat well and the temperature exceeds 60℃, some beneficial microorganisms will die.
③ PH factors
The pH in the composting machine is generally maintained at 6.5 – 8.5. Excessive acidity or alkalinity will affect the enzyme activity and cell membrane permeability of microorganisms. When the pH value is lower than 6, the growth of many bacteria will be inhibited; when the pH value is higher than 9, the survival of most microorganisms will face challenges.
3. Composting machines microbial balance maintaining technology
① Rational allocation of raw materials
Scientifically match raw materials according to the nutritional needs of microorganisms to ensure nutritional balance. At the same time, pre-treat the raw materials to remove impurities and harmful substances to create a good living environment for microorganisms.
② Accurately control environmental conditions
Install temperature control and pH control equipment to monitor and accurately adjust the temperature and pH in the composting machine in real time. Control the temperature through ventilation and heat dissipation or heating devices, and use acid-base regulators to maintain a stable pH value.
③ Add microbial agents
Add beneficial microbial agents in a timely manner to supplement dominant strains, enhance the vitality of microbial communities, and promote ecological balance. For example, adding Bacillus agents in the early stage of fermentation can accelerate the decomposition of organic matter.
Research on microbial ecological balance provides strong support for the efficient operation of organic fertilizer composting machines. In the future, we should further study the complex interaction mechanisms between microorganisms, develop more precise and efficient microbial ecological regulation technologies, promote the development of the organic fertilizer industry in a green and efficient direction, and help agricultural sustainable development reach new heights.