Compost is a useful gardening product that is formed from the decomposition process of organic matter by naturally occurring microorganisms. In winter, this process slows down and gardeners have to wait longer before removing the magical product from their compost bins. However, there is a way to take advantage of compost even in winter and in the following steps it is explained how.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Composting in the Cold Season
Step 1. Cut the organic material for the mixture into small pieces (about 5 cm), it will decompose faster
In winter, do not use too many dry leaves, as they tend to form lumps that decompose more slowly in low temperatures.
Step 2. Blend with a blender or freeze kitchen leftovers before adding them to the compost
Put the leftovers in a blender along with some water and then pour them into the compost bin. This method speeds up the decomposition process of leftovers.
If the above method doesn't appeal to you, you can put the leftovers in a bag and freeze them, before putting them in the compost bin. Freezing and thawing leftovers in the compost bin helps them decompose faster
Step 3. Use a large compost bin or area
A large compost pile is more likely to function in the winter than a small one, because even though the outer layers are frozen, inside, the decomposition process is still going on.
This happens because in large piles the outer layers insulate and protect the inner part from cold and frost
Step 4. Create layers of dry material and green material
Alternating between a layer of fresh organic matter, which decomposes faster, and a layer of dry material, which decomposes more slowly, helps keep compost warm in winter.
Step 5. Avoid turning compost over during the winter months
Whenever you put your hands in the bin during the winter, the heat in the compost dissipates and the decomposition process slows down.
Step 6. Keep the compost moist
If you water your plants and garden during the winter, water the compost too, until it is moist. The microorganisms that decompose the organic material need moisture to be fully active.
Step 7. Isolate the compost to keep it moist
During the winter, cover the compost with an oilcloth; this will help retain moisture and heat. The canvas can be easily removed to add new organic material. Snow also helps isolate compost and keep it from freezing completely. You can leave the compost under the snow until you need to add more organic material.
If you live in an area where it does not snow in winter or only occasionally snows, you can insulate the compost with a bale of hay
Step 8. Consider purchasing a complete composting kit
In cold climates, it is an advantage for gardeners to have one of these kits, as they usually come with options to protect the compost from the elements.
Step 9. If you think your compost is not working, wait for the warmer season to arrive before starting the process again
Despite all your efforts, compost can stop working if temperatures drop below freezing. But don't worry, when they start to rise, your compost will surely come back to life too!
Method 2 of 2: General Composting Tips
Step 1. Make sure there is a balance between the amounts of nitrogen, carbon, air and water in your compost
Compost needs nitrogen and carbon, as well as air and water, to function properly. Make sure that these elements are present in balanced quantities.
Step 2. Add carbon based ingredients
The main organic carbon-based materials are: straw, leaves, cardboard, newspaper strips.
Add only black and white newspaper sheets and avoid color ones as they may contain toxic chemicals
Step 3. Use a nitrogen based fertilizer
From time to time, add nitrogen fertilizers, such as blood meal, or alpha-alpha fertilizer, to the compost. These fertilizers are especially useful in winter. Nitrogen generates heat and is an integral part of the diet of microorganisms.
If your compound has stopped working well, you can add food scraps, such as vegetables and coffee, which contain nitrogen
Step 4. Place the compost bin in a sunny area
The heat of the sun accelerates the decomposition process.
Step 5. Begin composting indoors
To make as few trips to the compost bin as possible, start a compost pile in your garage, basement, or shed. Low temperatures will reduce the formation of unpleasant odors. Put the organic material in a large basin or bucket and transport it to the compost bin in the garden when it is full, or once a week.
Alternate layers of leftover food and dry material, such as newspaper, to reduce odors
Step 6. Add the appropriate material to the compost
Diseased parts of plants, cat or dog litter soil, charcoal ash and hickory leaves must all stay out of the bin, as these things are known to be harmful to compost.
