Building & Maintaining Your Pile

 

Balancing “Browns” and “Greens”

• Aim for 30:1 Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio: Roughly two parts browns (twigs, shredded paper) to one part greens (vegetable scraps, fresh grass).

• Layering Technique: Start with a layer of coarse browns for drainage, then alternate 4–6 inch layers of greens and browns.

Essential Maintenance

• Aeration: Turn or tumble at least every 7–14 days to introduce oxygen and prevent anaerobic odors.

• Moisture Control: Your pile should feel like a wrung‑out sponge—sprinkle water if it’s dry, add more browns if it’s soggy.

• Temperature Monitoring: A hot pile (130–150 °F) breaks down materials faster. Use a compost thermometer to check; if it cools, add fresh greens and aerate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Smelly, Slimy Pile: Sign of too much moisture or lack of air—turn and add dry browns.

• Slow Decomposition: Likely too dry, too few greens, or insufficient turning—adjust moisture, add kitchen scraps, and stir.

• Fruit Flies or Pests: Ensure food scraps are buried under browns; secure lid or fine mesh on bins; for vermicomposts, limit citrus and onion peels.