Should I Cover My Compost Pile?

There are a few factors that need to be considered before you decide to cover your compost pile. These include the region you live in, the kind of composting system you have, your goals and more.

1. Rain – In a lot of regions, excessive rainfall can make it difficult to keep your compost pile active. The excess moisture can clog your compost, stop oxygen from getting in and kill the bacteria that break down food scraps. This can lead to mold growth and a foul odor in your compost, which is not ideal for anyone.

2. Winter – Cold weather can slow down the decomposition process and the materials in your compost pile might freeze. Adding some additional nitrogen to the mix may help keep the microbes active during these colder months.

3. Sun – If you’re not in a cold climate, sunlight can accelerate the composting process. Putting the pile in full sun can speed up the heat transfer from the sun to the compost materials, helping them decompose faster.

4. Animals – If you have birds or other critters visiting your compost pile, the best way to keep them out is to create a barrier. A tarp or plastic sheet draped over the top of your pile will prevent them from gaining access to it and can also discourage them from roosting and hiding in it.

5. Aeration – If you have poor airflow in your compost pile, covering it with a tarp or plastic may be necessary to maintain optimal oxygen levels and keep the compost materials processed correctly. Keeping the compost covered can also help alleviate too much rain, which can cause excess moisture to evaporate in the stack.

6. Temperature – If your compost pile is in the sun, a tarp or plastic cover may be necessary to maintain optimal temperature. Too much heat can dry out the pile and cause the materials to burn too quickly, so moderation is key here.

7. Water – If your compost pile is too dry, add more water to the ingredients. A squeeze test can help you gauge the moisture content of the materials and add enough water to keep them moist and ready for composting.

8. The Composting Process – If you’re new to composting, the answer to this question is that it depends on where you live and your goals. The key factors that need to be considered are the amount of sun, the type of compost bin you have and your region’s climate.

The composting process is a combination of aeration, microorganisms and heat. Without all of these components, the compost materials won’t break down. So if you don’t have the right balance, your compost will take longer to compost and be more difficult to use.

Whether you’re composting in the sun or shade, the right mixture of green and brown material is crucial for your pile to be successful. Using a mixture of dried leaves, grass clippings and kitchen waste works well for most people.