How to Turn Compost: A StepbyStep Guide

How to Turn Compost?

To turn compost, you can use methods such as using a pitchfork, moving compost from one bin to another, or using a compost aerator.

Compost tumblers are also a good investment as they eliminate the need for manual turning.

The frequency of turning depends on factors such as the green to brown ratio, moisture levels, and compost bin type and size.

Green materials need to be turned more often, while brown materials can be turned less frequently.

The moisture content should be around 40-60% for ideal composting conditions.

The turning schedule can vary, but typically the compost should be turned every 2 to 3 days for the first two weeks, and then once a week thereafter.

Regularly turning the compost helps regulate moisture, aerate the pile, and speed up the decomposition process.

Key Points:

  • Methods for turning compost include using a pitchfork, moving compost between bins, or using a compost aerator
  • Compost tumblers are a good investment as they eliminate the need for manual turning
  • The frequency of turning depends on factors such as the green to brown ratio, moisture levels, and compost bin type and size
  • Green materials need to be turned more often, while brown materials can be turned less frequently
  • The ideal moisture content for composting is 40-60%
  • Typically, compost should be turned every 2 to 3 days for the first two weeks, and then once a week thereafter


Did You Know?

1. The process of turning compost is believed to have originated in ancient China, where farmers understood the benefits of aerating the decomposing organic matter to speed up the breakdown process.

2. Contrary to popular belief, earthworms are not essential for composting. While they do contribute to the decomposition process by breaking down organic material, compost can still be produced successfully without their presence.

3. Did you know that compost can generate heat? During the decomposition process, microorganisms release energy in the form of heat, which can raise the internal temperature of a compost pile to as high as 160°F (71°C).

4. Compost can be used as a natural alternative to pet litter. Certain types of compost, known as “bio bags,” are designed specifically for pet waste and can be thrown directly into the compost pile, reducing waste and aiding in nutrient-rich soil production.

5. Composting coffee grounds is an excellent way to enhance your compost’s nitrogen content. Due to their naturally acidic properties, coffee grounds act as a powerful fertilizer and beneficial addition to compost for both indoor and outdoor plants.

The Importance Of Turning Compost

Turning compost is an essential practice in the composting process as it plays a vital role in maintaining optimal conditions for decomposition. Oxygen is crucial for efficient composting, and turning the compost helps introduce fresh air into the mix. This aeration promotes the growth of aerobic bacteria, which decomposes organic matter more quickly compared to anaerobic decomposition, which can slow down the composting process by up to 90%.

Turning the compost also helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the pile heats up uniformly and accelerates the breakdown of organic materials.

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Furthermore, turning the compost facilitates the mixing of different materials, ensuring that the pile remains well-balanced. This is particularly important when it comes to managing the green to brown ratio, which dictates the nitrogen to carbon content in the compost. By turning the pile, you can ensure that the green and brown materials are thoroughly mixed, allowing for the ideal conditions for microbial activity and decomposition.

Factors That Determine When To Turn Compost

The frequency of turning compost depends on several factors, including the green to brown ratio, stage of decomposition, moisture levels, and compost bin type and size.

  • Green materials, which are nitrogen-rich, need to be turned more often since they are processed by fast-acting bacteria that rapidly use up oxygen.
  • In contrast, brown materials, which are harder and slower to decompose, require less frequent turning.

Moisture content is another crucial factor to consider. The ideal moisture range for composting is between 40-60%. To determine if the compost pile has the correct moisture levels, you can perform the “sponge/squeeze test.” Simply grab a handful of compost and squeeze it firmly.
* If water drips from the compost, it is too wet and needs to be turned to improve airflow.
* Conversely, if the compost crumbles and falls apart, it is too dry, and water should be added.

The turning schedule for compost can vary depending on the balance of materials added and moisture levels.
* Initially, when the pile is very wet, it should be turned every day until the moisture levels decrease to normal.
* Once the moisture level is within the ideal range, the compost can be turned every 2 to 3 days for the first two weeks.
* After this initial period, turning the pile once a week is sufficient to maintain the decomposition process.

  • Green materials need more frequent turning.
  • Brown materials require less frequent turning.
  • Ideal moisture range: 40-60%.
  • Sponge/squeeze test:
  • Wet compost: turn to improve airflow.
  • Dry compost: add water.
  • Turning schedule:
  • Initially, turn daily if very wet.
  • Once moisture is ideal, turn every 2-3 days for first two weeks.
  • After initial period, turn once a week.

How To Turn Green Materials

Green materials, such as fresh grass clippings and vegetable scraps, are rich in nitrogen and break down quickly in the compost pile.

To effectively turn green materials, you should:

  • Prioritize breaking them down into smaller pieces, which will increase their surface area and facilitate decomposition.
  • Use a pitchfork to mix the green materials into the compost pile, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout.
  • This mixing process helps introduce oxygen and encourages the growth of aerobic bacteria, enhancing the decomposition process.

How To Turn Brown Materials

Brown materials, such as dry leaves and wood chips, decompose slower than green materials as they contain higher carbon content. To turn brown materials effectively, it is beneficial to shred or chop them into smaller pieces. This allows for increased contact with microorganisms and promotes faster breakdown. When turning the compost pile, mix the brown materials thoroughly into the mix. Though brown materials require less frequent turning, this step ensures their proper integration and distribution throughout the pile, promoting balanced decomposition.

  • Shred or chop brown materials into smaller pieces for faster decomposition
  • Mix the brown materials thoroughly into the compost pile to promote balanced decomposition

“Though brown materials require less frequent turning, this step ensures their proper integration and distribution throughout the pile, promoting balanced decomposition.”

Managing Moisture Levels In Compost

Maintaining proper moisture levels in the compost pile is crucial for successful decomposition. Compost should ideally have a moisture content between 40-60%. If the compost is too wet, it will become compacted and lack sufficient airflow, leading to anaerobic conditions. To rectify this, turn the compost pile regularly and mix in dry brown materials to increase aeration and absorb excess moisture. Conversely, if the compost is too dry, water should be added during the turning process to provide the necessary moisture for microorganisms to thrive.

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The “sponge/squeeze test” is a useful tool for determining moisture levels in compost. By grabbing a handful of compost and squeezing it firmly, you can assess if the moisture content is appropriate. If the compost holds together without water dripping out, it is within the ideal moisture range. However, if water drips from the compost during the squeezing process, it is too wet and requires turning to improve aeration.

  • Maintain compost moisture between 40-60% to ensure successful decomposition.
  • If compost is too wet:
  • Regularly turn the compost pile.
  • Mix in dry brown materials for increased aeration and absorption of excess moisture.
  • If compost is too dry:
  • Add water during the turning process to provide necessary moisture for microorganisms.
  • Use the “sponge/squeeze test” to determine moisture levels:
  • Grab a handful of compost.
  • Squeeze it firmly to assess moisture content.
  • If compost holds together without water dripping out, it is within ideal moisture range.
  • If water drips from compost, it is too wet and needs to be turned for better aeration.

“Maintaining proper moisture levels in the compost pile is crucial for successful decomposition.”

Troubleshooting Through Turning Compost

Regularly turning compost not only accelerates the decomposition process but also helps troubleshoot common composting problems. A sour or ammonia smell, lack of heating, lack of oxygen, lack of nitrogen, wetness, and overheating are all issues that can be addressed by turning the compost pile.

Turning the compost activates the heating process with fresh materials and redistributes heat throughout the pile. This promotes the growth of longer-acting microorganisms and fungi, which are responsible for breaking down woody substances and branches that may otherwise remain intact.

Moreover, turning increases aeration and introduces more oxygen into the compost pile, addressing issues of lack of oxygen and promoting aerobic decomposition. If the compost becomes too wet, turning helps improve airflow and dissipates excess moisture. Conversely, if the compost is too dry, turning provides an opportunity to add water and increase moisture levels.

turning compost is a vital step in the composting process. It ensures efficient decomposition, promotes a healthy balance of materials, manages moisture levels, and troubleshoots common issues. Whether using a pitchfork, transferring compost from one bin to another, or using a compost aerator, regularly turning the pile helps create a finished product faster and more efficiently.

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Compost tumblers are an excellent investment for those seeking convenience as they eliminate the need for manual turning. By following a proper turning schedule and considering the factors that determine when to turn compost, you can effectively harness the power of composting and contribute to a healthier environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to activate compost?

To activate compost effectively, a combination of turning and aeration is key. Regularly turning the compost pile, whether by flipping it over or using a pitchfork, introduces vital oxygen to support the activity of microbes. By providing adequate air circulation, these microorganisms can thrive and break down organic matter more efficiently, accelerating the composting process. Whether you choose to turn the pile once a week or opt for aeration through occasional poking, ensuring a steady supply of oxygen will help activate the compost and transform it into nutrient-rich soil amendment in no time.

How do you turn anything into compost?

To transform any material into compost, start by utilizing kitchen waste such as fruit and vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, and more. As you bury these scraps, it is essential to cover them with soil or chopped leaves. This process can be further expedited by chopping the scraps with a shovel prior to covering, aiding in faster decomposition. By burying kitchen waste and allowing it to feed soil animals and microorganisms, the soil’s fertility increases, resulting in nutrient-rich compost.

What is the best way to compost?

The key to successful composting lies in creating the ideal environment for decomposition. To achieve this, it is crucial to have a bin without any holes or gaps larger than ¼ inch, as this helps maintain the moisture and temperature levels needed for effective composting. Additionally, maintaining the proper ratio of materials in your pile is essential, with a combination of two to three parts carbon-rich material (browns) and one part nitrogen-rich material (greens). This balance ensures a healthy decomposition process and reduces the risk of odors. Lastly, covering and burying food scraps in your pile helps accelerate decomposition and prevents attracting pests or animals. By following these guidelines, you can create nutrient-rich compost for your plants and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

What turns into compost the fastest?

The materials that decompose the fastest in compost are those that are easier for microbes to break down. This includes waste such as grass clippings and shredded paper, which are rich in organic matter and have less lignin compared to wood. These easier-to-digest materials provide a readily available food source for the microbes, resulting in a faster composting process. On the other hand, it is important to avoid adding meat, dairy, or oils to the compost pile as they can slow down the decomposition process and may attract pests.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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