How to Use Corncobs and Husks in Compost

Scraps from healthy plants and vegetables -- including corn kernels, cobs, husks and stalks -- are appropriate for compost heaps. Corncobs provide potash, and husks add carbon, both of which are essential in maintaining the pH balance of a compost bin. If you're adding large numbers of corncobs or husks, you should add nitrogen sources and water to balance the moisture content and carbon to nitrogen ratio in your pile.

Instructions

- 1
  Wash any excess oil or butter from your corncobs. Oil and dairy products can turn rancid in a compost bin.
- 2
  Tear up husks and chop up corncobs before adding them to the pile. Breaking up vegetable scraps helps them decompose more quickly.
- 3
  Cover corncobs with finished compost. The scent of fermenting corncobs may attract flies and other pests.
- 4
  Add water and a nitrogen source such as coffee grounds, dried leaves, or tea leaves to balance the pile. An ideal compost pile has a 10:1 ratio of carbon to nitrogen. Compost should feel as moist as a damp sponge, but not soggy. If possible, use rainwater to moisten your compost, not tap water, which may contain chlorine and other chemicals.

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