The processes in the compost should not come to a standstill in winter, otherwise undesirable processes can occur. If you pay attention to a few aspects and protect the compost properly, you will encourage rotting at low temperatures.
The compost should be rearranged before the onset of winter
preparations in autumn
Mix the compost thoroughly in autumn so that the moisture is optimally distributed. Rearranging is used for ventilation, so that the rotting processes are positively influenced. This measure reduces the formation of rot in the spring. You can use this opportunity to remove part of the substrate and store it in a frost-protected place in the garden shed (€24.90) or in the garage. This will give you an ideal starting point for starting a new compost next spring.
structural material
In winter, the compost requires structural material such as straw or shredded remains of tree and shrub cuttings. The material ensures that the compost content remains loosened. The cold temperatures in winter freeze the cells of the organic material. When they thaw in spring, they burst and release liquid. If there is insufficient ventilation, a putrefying mass forms which emits unpleasant odours.
Collect fallen leaves and wood residues in autumn, which you dry in a warm place. Chop leftovers and mix with kitchen waste before adding to compost.
A mixture of:
- 20 to 40 percent dry material such as prunings
- 60 to 80 percent moist nitrogen-rich material such as kitchen waste
Protection from rain and snow
In the winter, you need to protect the compost from rain and snow so that too much moisture does not accumulate inside. Cover an open compost with a burlap sack ($11.99). Alternatively, a compost fleece or mulch film is recommended. Airtight covers such as plastic foil are unsuitable because they promote undesirable rotting processes. The microorganisms in the compost need oxygen for their metabolism to function.
Additional measures
Add small amounts of wood ash to the compost weekly. The ash contains lime, phosphate and potassium, which create a balance of organic acids and bases. Make sure you use it sparingly so as not to oversalt the substrate. Excessive amounts of wood ash damage the soil organisms. Coal ash is not suitable for composting as the heavy metal content is very high.