Preparing your Compost Pile for The Winter
During the Winters, the bacteria and other micro-organisms that break down our food scraps, yard and garden waste, and other organic waste to make compost slow down and even go dormant. And only once the weather warms up, they will start to move around.
Here are several things that you can do, to ensure that your compost continues to decompose in the cold weather:
The greater the pile, the better the heat retention. Aim to keep the pile no less than 1 cubic yard, or 3' x 3' x 3'.
The summer's heat promotes in the breakdown of bigger food leftovers and other materials. Smaller parts will break down more quickly since the cold temperature delays decomposition. Good size ranges from 2" to 3". If you can, use leaf mulch or shredded leaves.
If the compost is already mature it can sit over the winter, but it is still a good idea to cover it so
the nutrients do not get washed out in a heavy rain.
Avoid turning the pile. Turning will release most of the built up heat. You could instead use a metal or wooden pole to add air while retaining some heat if you're worried about the pile becoming anaerobic and decaying. This is best accomplished using metal fence posts or rebar. To make multiple holes in the pile, simply push it down into it from the top and mix it around a few times.
Keep the pile well insulated. Placing cardboard on the inside of the compost bin, and on the top of the pile serves the purpose. Additionally, leaves too can be used as insulation.
Manage the moisture. The microorganisms are still alive and working, so the pile still has to be
moist, but not soaking. If there is too much rain or sleet, cover the pile with a tarp. If you think
the pile is too dry, you can introduce water through the holes that you create with the metal
pole.
Keeping the pile warm and active during the winter will help insure you have mature compost to help
prepare your garden beds in the spring!
Simple Compost pile in Chicken wire
Leaves for the compost