How long before your compost pile makes good compost?

Question

I cant stand this thing, it stinks like a box full of butts.

Answer 1

Bad smells in a compost pile come from either something is in there that doesn't belong there (such as something of animal origin) or else anaerobic conditions ( too wet - the water closes up the air spaces)

Lots of good advice in these answers.

;-)

Answer 2

You can get good compost in about 40-90 days. A good pile needs air and moisture. Sometimes a little nitrogen. Do not add any meat scraps or pet dung . If you are using only fresh green wet grass clippings they will compact and get really stinky and gross.I suspect that this is the case, the butt-smell description. Add other materials into the pile, weeds with dirt on them, dry mowed leaves, small sticks or grass that was mowed and left on the lawn to dry a bit before raking. You really don't need to turn it. composting is so cool when you figure it out

Answer 3

I accept as true with the others that the compost won't generate lots warmth or action for the time of the iciness months. you have finished each and every thing top for it to artwork. one component I consistently do with my compost pile is to function worms to the mixture. interior the spring you could actually locate worms (distinctly after a spring bathe) under rocks or merely via digging in prosperous soil. whilst i discover worms the two via intentionally finding for them or by possibility whilst digging I consistently place them interior the compost pile making them (the worms) and me chuffed. it fairly is the action of worms and different little criters that generate the warmth and the decomposition. Are you composting leaves and grass clippings? In summer season grass clippings will generate warmth in a rush.

Answer 4

The proper mix of nitrogen and carbon--so-called greens and browns--and watering just enough so materials are as wet as a wrung out sponge, these are the main rules to follow.

The linked site from California Waste Management Board will give you the details you need.

If there are strong odors, something is wrong.

Answer 5

Depends on several factors, Are you stirring it? Is it hot, are you adding water? If its real stinky, mix it up and let it brew some more

Answer 6

mixing lime w/ it promotes faster decay. and stirring it around a couple times a month . to really speed up the process cover it w/ black plastic.

Answer 7

Then it's ready