💦 Keep It Damp
One of the key factors in efficient composting is moisture. Your compost pile should be kept slightly damp, just like a sponge. If it becomes too dry, the decomposition process will slow down:
Here’s how to keep the right moisture levels:
- Check regularly - Monitor the moisture level of your compost by squeezing a handful of material. It should feel damp, but not dripping.
- Water wisely - If your compost is too dry, add water gradually and mix thoroughly to evenly distribute it. During dry spells or hot weather, you may need to water your compost more often.
- Balancing act - If your compost is too wet, it can also slow down the composting process. Add more ‘brown’ materials, such as cardboard and straw, to help keep your compost healthy.
🥕 Break It Down
The size of the materials you add to your compost pile can affect the speed of decomposition. Smaller pieces decompose faster because they have a larger surface area for microbes to work on.
Top tips:
- Chop or shred - Cut larger items like vegetable scraps, cardboard, and garden waste into smaller pieces before adding them to the pile.
- Use a Shredder - If you have a lot of tough garden waste, such as tree trunks and branches, think about using a shredder to make the job easier.
🌬️ Give It Air
Aerating is important in helping transform your waste into compost. Oxygen helps to speed up the decomposition process by supporting the aerobic microbes that break down the organic material.
Here’s how to make sure your compost gets enough air:
- Turn It Regularly - Use a spade, gardening fork or aerator to turn your compost pile often. This helps to add air and mix the materials.
- Tip it out – An effective method for adding air to your composters - try tipping out the contents of your compost bin and then refilling it. This thorough mixing means that all parts of the pile get aerated.
By keeping your compost moist, breaking down materials into smaller pieces, and adding air, you can help speed up the composting process.
These simple steps will help you create rich, fertile compost in a shorter amount of time, benefiting both your garden and the environment!