Talk Dirty to Me!

daryl.weaver 1/17/2012, 7:05 pm

Compost question No 1237.4: According to Mel, there is a "critical mass" for composting of about 3 cf. My tumbler has about that much stuff in it, but it's so full that there's not much "tumbling" going on--which is also integral to the process. So, should I take some stuff out or should it begin to reduce in size all on its own?

**camprn** 1/17/2012, 7:29 pm

There really isn't need for a whole bunch of fluffing, just enough to integrate a bit of O2 into the whole mess. As long as there is a bit of room in there, just enough to shift things a bit it, should be good. After a few batches, you will be a pro. Have you had a chance to read the Composting 101 thread?

EatYourVeggies 1/17/2012, 7:36 pm

I imagine its going to be pretty hard maintaining a productive temperature this time of year too. Mad

**WardinWake** 1/17/2012, 7:44 pm

EatYourVeggies wrote:I imagine its going to be pretty hard maintaining a productive temperature this time of year too.

Howdy EYV:

Compost happens. Even in the dead of winter. Many folks have been surprised to find lots of snow on their yards and no snow at all on top of their active compost piles. The snow hits and melts adding moisture to the pile which helps the pile even more.

My Grandfather had a Model A Ford that was hand cranked. He had no problem starting the car in the coldest of weather when his neighbors had big problems starting theirs. His secret? He parked his motor over an active compost pile. The warmth from the pile was enough to keep the cold off his engine.

God Bless, Ward and Mary.

LittleGardener 1/17/2012, 9:52 pm

WardinWake wrote:
EatYourVeggies wrote:I imagine its going to be pretty hard maintaining a productive temperature this time of year too.
Howdy EYV:

Compost happens. Even in the dead of winter. Many folks have been surprised to find lots of snow on their yards and no snow at all on top of their active compost piles. The snow hits and melts adding moisture to the pile which helps the pile even more.

My Grandfather had a Model A Ford that was hand cranked. He had no problem starting the car in the coldest of weather when his neighbors had big problems starting theirs. His secret? He parked his motor over an active compost pile. The warmth from the pile was enough to keep the cold off his engine.

God Bless, Ward and Mary.

Now see THIS re "dirt": kids in school should be taught. Really,children & everyone should have whole encyclopedias of related sunny

Folk-wisdoms... (Were that the case, this country also wouldn't have 1/5 affraid

of its entire economy tied-up in that travesty aka "sick-care"). - oh boy, what have I done. Seriously, by such wisdoms all profit abundantly... Thanks for sharing Talk Dirty to Me! 61949

Ward
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