TECHNICAL GUIDE: PIT COMPOSTING & FIELD APPLICATION

​A Field Guide for Sustainable Agriculture in Senegal

​1. COMPOST PIT MAINTENANCE

​Maintaining Healthy Compost in Arid Conditions (Sahel & Groundnut Basin)

Golden Rules for Pit Maintenance:

​Water Management:

​Perform the squeeze test once a week.

​Add water gradually during turning, not just on top of the pile.

​Temperature Control:

​Insert a smooth wooden stick deep into the center of the pit for 5 minutes.

​If the stick feels hot and damp: Decomposition is working well.

​If the stick feels cold: Add a mixture of water and fresh manure (poultry or cattle) to restart fermentation.

​Sun & Wind Protection (Harmattan):

​Keep the pit covered at all times with woven straw mats (secko), burlap sacks, or palm fronds.

​Never leave the pit contents exposed to direct sunlight to prevent drying out and nutrient loss.

​2. TWIN-PIT TURNING SCHEDULE

​Complete Cycle: 60 to 75 Days

┌──────────────┐     20 Days      ┌──────────────┐     20 Days      ┌──────────────┐

│    PIT A     │ ───────────────> │    PIT B     │ ───────────────> │    PIT A     │

│  Filling &   │  1st Turning &   │ Invert layers│  2nd Turning &   │ Maturation & │

│   Watering   │ Re-hydration     │ (Top to Bot) │   Aeration       │ Storage      │

└──────────────┘                  └──────────────┘                  └──────────────┘