Compost Troubleshooting

Watch for organic matter that refuses to break down, or breaks down slowly. Add bone meal or compost starter to begin the composting process, and mix the compost once or twice a day. The micro-organisms responsible for breaking down the organic matter need plenty of air to do their work. Frequent mixing leads to quicker breakdown.

Watch for compost that gets too cool or wet. Compost fails when it gets soupy, or if it sits out in the rain. Move the compost bin to a protected location where it gets indirect sun and protection from rain and wind. Add garden soil or shredded paper to dry it out.

Watch for compost that gets too dry. Water the compost pile once a week to maintain an evenly moist consistency, or water every time you add scraps. The micro-organisms in the compost need moisture to work, and should never dry out. Keep the compost as moist as a well-wrung sponge.

Watch for compost that gets stagnant or rotten. The organic material won't break down on its own, and needs frequent mixing. Increase your mixing to once or twice a day, or more often, to keep the compost from going rotten.

Add a wide array of kitchen and garden scraps to keep your compost healthy and balanced. Feed the pile with organic scraps once a week.