Reply To: Trouble in the compost bin

[rotmajster]

If your compost pile isn’t heating up, start by checking the balance of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials, aiming for a roughly 2:1 ratio. Ensure the pile is moist, like a wrung-out sponge, and turn it regularly to maintain aeration. The pile should be at least 3 feet on each side to retain heat effectively. Chop large pieces of material to improve decomposition, and consider adding a compost starter if needed. Use a compost thermometer to verify that temperatures are within the ideal range of 130°F to 160°F (54°C to 71°C), and adjust moisture, aeration, and material balance accordingly.

• This reply was modified 3 months, 3 weeks ago by Elle Reed.