Layers of carbon rich compostable materials need to be alternated with layers of nitrogen compostable materials. Examples of carbon rich materials are fallen leaves and branches. They're brown, with a 'b' as in carbon. Examples of nitrogen rich materials are fresh grass clippings. They're green, with a 'g' as in nitrogen.
There shouldn't be layers in your bin. It should be all mixed up together.
It is by activators that compost can be made better. Activators may include alternating dry and wet layers, introducing animal manure with dried leaves or twigs and shredded wood, mixing fresh compost between the layers of an aged compost pile or vice versa, and sprinkling healthy garden soil between the alternating carbon- and nitrogen-rich layers.
Commercial compost should be sterile so if bought compost the answer is no.
There is no need to mix old and new compost. Old compost ,if ready, should be used on its own. New material will take time to rot down to compost.
It is by activators that compost can be made better. Activators may include alternating dry and wet layers, introducing animal manure with dried leaves or twigs and shredded wood, mixing fresh compost between the layers of an aged compost pile or vice versa, and sprinkling healthy garden soil between the alternating carbon- and nitrogen-rich layers.
For optimal protection and durability, it is recommended to apply at least three layers of polyurethane.
Everyone should compost because it is a win for everyone. Composting is good for the environment. Plants that are fertilized with compost are given nutrients that regular soil does not contain.
No, you should not compost oil as it can contaminate the compost pile and harm the environment. Oil should be disposed of properly at a recycling center or hazardous waste facility.
To effectively empty a compost tumbler, simply open the door or lid of the tumbler and carefully shovel or scoop out the compost. Make sure to wear gloves and use a shovel or pitchfork to remove the compost in layers, starting from the bottom. This will help ensure that the compost is evenly distributed and ready to be used in your garden or landscaping.
Turning layers is a way to make the compost mix hotter. Garden equipment, such as a rake, may be used to mix together and move up or down the alternating layers of carbon- and nitrogen-rich materials. Turning layers two or three times a week helps beneficial micro-organisms interact and reach more compostables and promotes proper aerating, heating and moisturizing of the compost container, pile or pit.
Compost should be maintained at a temperature between 110-160F for optimal decomposition.
In colder climates that only have one growing season, you apply compost only once a year to your garden. In the fall time, after your growing season has finished, you would mix the compost into the soil in your garden, allowing it to decompose further through the winter. This will give you a garden bed of nutrient rich soil come spring time. In warmer climates that effectively have 2 growing seasons, or grow year around, you would apply compost to the soil in the fall and in the spring before planting your next round of plants. You can also add compost to the soil during the heat of the summer when nothing is growing, to help reduce erosion, maintain moisture, and to help combat weeds. For best results, apply compost by digging and turning a foot deep of soil and then folding the compost into the loose soil.