Troubleshooting a hot compost pile that is not getting into the “hot” (131F-155F) temperature range. I am going to check the four ingredients which are air, water, nitrogen and carbon.
I start the troubleshooting process with the activities that require the least effort. I know my pile is carbon heavy so I am eliminating adding carbon as a potential fix.
The first thing try is adding a chimney to increase airflow and bring the temperature back up. The idea behind a compost chimney is that as the air escapes through the opening in the top of the pile, air is drawn in from the sides of the pile, increasing overall airflow in the pile.
If the chimney fails, next step for me is adding water. I train the hose on the pile and give it a good long watering. I have my hose hooked up to our rain barrels.
My last resort is flipping the pile entirely and adding a nitrogen source. In addition to adding nitrogen as I flip, I will also add water as I go, and the flip in of itself will add air.
If the pile still does not heat up, then I know it is ready to start sitting and curing.
Welcome to all things ever hopeful in the garden. I am Amanda and I share my gardening journey with you here and on Instagram and TikTok. I garden in Charlotte, NC, zone 7b with a last frost date of April 1-15 and a first frost date of November 1st.
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