While maintaining a compost pile isn't the most difficult thing, there is definitely an art to it.
Using these tips, you can maximize the efficiency of your pile and ultimately create more compost.
Turn the Compost More Frequently.
Seems simple enough...
well that's because it is.
If you're not satisfied with how quickly (slowly) your compost is degrading, this will certainly get it going.
The more you turn it, the more you're introducing oxygen into the pile and letting nature do its thing.
In order to keep the bacteria alive in the pile, it needs air and lots of it.
When the pile initially starts, it will have a high temperature as the bacteria uses up the oxygen in the pile and has plenty to eat.
I suggest having a piece of rebar or something similar wedged into your pile.
Wiggling it around from time to time keeps an air pocket in the pile, which can ultimately keep the pile degrading at a nice rate.
Check the Moisture in the Pile.
This one seems trickier than it really is.
You don't need to get scientific with it by any means, but you'll still be doing your pile a huge favor.
All you need to do is grab a handful of that earthy stuff.
How moist does it feel to you? If you can squeeze water out of your hand, it's too wet.
If it's drier than a damp cloth, it's too dry.
Personally, I'd rather my pile too wet than too dry.
If it's too wet, add more twigs, leaves and grass to balance it out.
Simple! Shred the Material to Increase the Breakdown Rate.
I never thought of this originally when I started composting, although it seems so obvious now.
If you reduce the size of your material by ripping it, shredding it, what have you, you're speeding up the compost process.
I've seen commercial shredders do the trick, but I like to just rip up material by hand because it's fun.
Between ripping up material into small pieces and beating up the pile and turning it with the shovel, my stress level greatly reduces.
By employing these techniques, I can basically guarantee that your compost pile will become more efficient and be able to handle more material.
The finished product will also be way better off.
If you're going to compost, do it right and you will reap the benefits.
Honestly though, these tips are just the beginning for maintaining a great compost pile.
If the pile doesn't seem effective, just keep trying...
once you get the hang of it, it's no sweat.
Be sure to check out my other articles on composting for even more tips on how to get most out of your compost.