What Should You Do If Your Compost Stalls in Temperature?

Managing Temperature Imbalance

When your compost pile temperature stalls, it’s likely due to an imbalance of ‘green’ and ‘brown’ materials. Green materials, such as food scraps and grass clippings, are high in nitrogen and tend to increase the pile’s temperature. Brown materials, like dried leaves and shredded newspaper, are high in carbon and help to absorb excess moisture and regulate temperature. Aim for a mix of 2/3 ‘brown’ materials and 1/3 ‘green’ materials by volume to achieve a balanced composition.

Adding Brown Materials to Balance the Pile

When adding brown materials to your compost pile, it’s essential to maintain a balance between carbon and nitrogen. Aim for a ratio of 10 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen (C:N ratio). For example, 10 pounds of dried leaves (high in carbon) can be mixed with 1 pound of grass clippings (high in nitrogen). This balance will help to regulate the pile’s temperature and promote aerobic decomposition.

Turning the Compost Pile for Aeration

Regular turning of the compost pile is crucial to maintain aeration and promote decomposition. Aim to turn the pile every 7-10 days, especially during the active decomposition phase. Use a pitchfork or shovel to gently turn the pile, working from the bottom up to avoid compacting the materials. This will help to introduce oxygen, break down clumps, and speed up the decomposition process.