The materials in the compost need high temperatures. They are caused by the decomposition of the material during rotting. Nutritious, well-fertilizing compost is only produced at sufficiently high temperatures. What is the temperature in the compost heap?
Temperatures vary during rotting depending on the phase
Compost temperature in the garden
The decomposition process in compost takes place in four phases. The temperatures vary considerably:
- Phase 1: up to 40 degrees (pre-rotting)
- Phase 2: up to 60 degrees (hot rotting)
- Phase 3: up to 40 degrees (main decomposition)
- Phase 4: up to 30 degrees (after rotting)
The preliminary rotting lasts up to two weeks. The hot rotting is usually completed after twelve weeks.
It makes sense to measure the temperature of the compost in the garden from time to time. When using thermal composters, a temperature measurement is usually not necessary.
tips
On very hot days you should water the compost once. If the material becomes too dry, the microorganisms will not survive. Woodlice in particular always need slightly moist compost.