Why Is My Compost Not Heating Up?
Check pile size, moisture, materials, and weather before deciding that a cool compost pile has failed.
Published by ThriveThyme
compost troubleshooting soil
A cool pile can still decompose
Small piles lose heat readily. Dry material, a shortage of fresh green material, cold weather, or a batch nearing completion can also explain a cool center. Heating is not the only sign of progress.
Check moisture before adding ingredients. For faster active composting, Iowa State recommends a pile at least about three feet in each dimension. A smaller pile may need more time.
Record one useful comparison
Take a reading from the same part of the pile before and after an adjustment. Record what you mixed in and whether the interior was dry, damp, or soggy. The Compost Troubleshooter stores these observations so you can compare them later.
Next Steps
For a batch already curing, read how to tell when compost is finished. For a leaf-only pile, see making leaf mold.