Trying to get this compost to heat up. About the 4th time I've turned it adding nitrogen and haven't gotten it above 120* F. Erg.
#compost #homesteading
Discussion
What's the ingredients? How is it different from other piles you've made? What nitrogen are you adding?
Food scraps, chicken poop, urine and other. Trying to throw whatever I can.
Whatβs the nitrogen to carbon ratio (greens to browns) ? How often did you turn it? Whatβs the ambient temperature you are composting in?
It's cold. Don't have an exact ratio, just trying to get as much N in as possible. I'm hoping to get it up to 150+ before turning it again.
It doesn't have enough air flow.
Thanks Jack. I'm going to keep at it and find a way. If times get tough...
Hot composting to hit temperature targets is tough. Moisture, air flow (particle size) and ingredients have to be just right. As long as it doesn't smell bad I wouldn't worry too much.
Thank you. I am going to keep plugging away until I get it.
What's the ambient temperature? I've made piles in the past like the one in your pic during winter and it never really takes off even if the moisture, oxygen levels and mix of materials are right. I ended up making bigger piles, like 6'x6x5'ish and that has done the trick for me. Maybe CO2 is a concern in the greenhouse? I wouldn't expect it to be at dangerous levels, but maybe high enough to hinder?
Don't think CO2 is an issue. It has been cold for sure. I was thinking the pile may need to be bigger as well.
Maybe not enough volume
That'sonn my short list of reasons as well. May be too cold for that size of pile.
If the nitrogen carbon ratio is about right and its being oxigenized (turned) and there is at least a cubic meter of material then its either too much or to little water.