Expert: Greg - 3/23/2004

Question
I have 2 composting piles (each around 3 cubic feet-open on front and top with chicken wire on the 3 other sides).  What are your the tips to get it to compost correctly and quickly?  I have alternated layers of green leaves and brown grass clippings with occcasional dirt.  I try to water it about once every few weeks.  I rarely turn it.  I live the Dallas Texas.

Answer
Hello Scott

Seems to me you are doing it right.

Many factors are involved in a speedy Decompositon. Heat is a main factor, did you locate the pile<s> in Direct Sun? The smaller the matter that went into the pile the faster it will Rot. If you have a Shredder for the Leaves that would help. If the Matter was smaller it would be easier to turn also. Since you have 2 piles it would be a good idea to have one working while you add matter to the other, that way you could have a constant suppy of Compost ready for use. When you water, keep it to the consistancy of a Damp Mop, do not oversoak it so it doesn't become waterlogged which slows the process down.

I hope this helps but if I have missed something here, don't hesitate with a follow up.

The Best of Luck
Greg