• print page
• email this page
• ask a question

Compost Trouble?

Slow Decomposition, what causes it?

• Too much grass has been added, making it too wet, or too many large woody materials have been added making it too dry.
• Decreases in temperature.
• Lack of turning and / or mixture of materials.

How does this affect the compost?

• The organisms that decompose the waste begin to slow down because they are not favourable conditions. Look at your heap. Is it too wet, too dry or too cold?

What are the solutions?

• Balance grass cuttings with chopped woodier materials or torn up paper or cardboard.
• Woody materials take a long time to compost. By chopping them up, they create more heat in the compost and decompose quicker. This goes for all materials - they should be as small as possible.
• During the winter months, compost activity slows right down. Turning and prodding the heap with help to add air and mix the materials. You can also insulate the heap/ bin using bits of old carpet or bubble wrap.
• Try using activators such as garden soil (full of microorganisms), compost from a previous batch, urine, nettles or comfrey soaked in water.

Remember

• It can take anything from four weeks to two years to make good compost. It depends on how much effort is put in to get the right mix of materials and conditions.
• The organisms that compost kitchen and garden waste need a balance of water, air, heat and food to survive. This is what you are aiming for in your compost heap.
• More help is available from Surrey Heath Environmental Services on 01276 707330 or email environmental.health@surreyheath.gov.uk