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How does heat and cold affect a compost pile?

Updated: 8/20/2019
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11y ago

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Extreme heat and cold will effect compost formation. Many times I have measured very active compost piles, with sufficient moisture, at 120 degrees F. Temperatures above may begin to adversely effect decomposition, depending on moisture present. I do not know at what higher temperatures decomposition slows or stops.

Cold temperatures slow the metabolism of decomposition organisms. Therefore compost formation eventually stops at temperatures approaching freezing.

The decay organisms vary greatly and their heat/cold tolerances will vary also.

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Q: How does heat and cold affect a compost pile?
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How does heat affect a compost pile?

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