Why isn't my compost breaking down? I am using a good mix of green and browns.
After approximately twelve months, there should be some signs of dark brown/black compost developing at the very bottom of the bin. When you dig some out of the bottom, you should have a clearer indication of what is going on within the centre of the bin. After this period of time, most of the waste that has found its way to the bottom of the heap should no longer be distinguishable. In order for the compost process to work, it requires 4 things:
- Food - Aim for a 50/50 mix of 'greens' (young, wet and sappy waste) and 'browns' (old, dry, brittle, more fibrous waste).
- Air - All living organisms in your compost bin need air to breath. Brown material is usually good at providing these organisms with air pockets. Stirring and mixing every few weeks will help introduce air.
- Moisture - Your heap should be as moist as a wrung out sponge. Take a sample from close to the middle. Squeeze the sample in your hand and if the liquid fills the cracks between your fingers, you have enough moisture. If the liquid is pouring out of your hand, then it is too wet and needs more 'browns' adding. However a heap could also be too dry, in which case add some water.
- Warmth - Usually the organisms inside the bin are responsible for this. However, you can help them retain this heat by placing a flattened cardboard box or piece of old carpet on top of the material to insulate it from within.
You might wish to try adding materials which are known to decompose quicker, including comfrey, nettles, and thin layers of grass mowings. These are all high in nitrogen which will get the bugs working.
