Okay, so your compost pile has turned into a mess. Everyone makes it sound so easy. But now you’ve run into problems and you need solutions. If you want to keep up the production of black gold, you need to identify the issues. This is the opportunity to learn to troubleshoot your compost, and an opportunity for your kids to learn problem-solving. Here are the 3 most common issues with composting and no-nonsense ways to solve them.
Tip for dads: as mentioned above, there are generally three major problems with composting and learning the signs to identify them can be turned into a game for the kiddos. Teach them the issues, and whenever you run into one, see who can figure out the problem first.
Issue #1: Your Compost Smells Like Sewage
Your nose just might tell you there’s something off with your compost pile before you even see it. If your pile smells like sulfur or ammonia, there’s a good chance you’ve created an anaerobic environment, which means the decomposition process lacks oxygen. This can come from not stirring it enough, too much nitrogen, or too much water. For an extra stamp on your man card, grab a handful of your potent mixture and squeeze it. It should be damp, but you shouldn’t have water gushing out.
To correct an anaerobic heap, add some dry leaves, fine wood shavings, or something else that’s dry and carbon-rich. Then be sure to stir the pile a bit more frequently. You should have this issue resolved in no time. Once you have the earthy smell, you're golden.
Issue #2: Nothing Seems to be Happening
On the other end of the spectrum, if you’ve been adding to your bin for a while and nothing’s happening, you’re likely missing a key ingredient. First, check the pile for moisture—it should be damp. If it’s dry, you’re not providing the moisture the process needs. If it’s damp but still unchanged, add more greens. Brown materials alone won’t break down quickly; the right mix of browns and greens gives the best results. Experiment with the ratio, but aim for 3:1.
Issue #3: You’ve Got Visitors
All’s fine and dandy with the compost until a kid comes running in, screaming about an infestation in her compost pile. You’d better investigate! If you find evidence of mice, rats, or other rodents, bury your food deeper in the pile. If you’ve got flies, potato bugs, or other insects, you’re doing okay—those are part of the process. Some insects are better than others, but don’t worry too much. One thing to watch: What are you putting in your pile? Are you adding meat? That’s usually a no-no unless you’re experienced with composting or not using it in a garden where you’ll harvest food.
Who Knew a Garbage Pile Could Be So Much Work?
Reading articles on composting might make it seem like more work than it is. Sure, there’s effort involved, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. In reality, not much can go wrong with a compost pile, and there are dozens of ways to set one up. Experiment, have fun learning, and keep trying new things to improve it. After all, what better way to Fortify The Lines than to build soil to grow food in your own backyard?