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Owatonna Minnesota

Is it ok to keep adding through the winter.Egg shells,coffee grounds and so on. TIA Rod

12/13/2009 2:14:57 PM

SE Minnesota

I still throw mine on the pile...I don't think my piles are actively composting but come spring I will turn my pile once a week to help the process...My compost piles are 2 yrs old before I use them...fairly new to this others like Dan Bowles might be able to give you better answers...Best of luck
Jim

12/17/2009 11:39:45 AM

Jim,,,if throwing stuff in the pile over winter worked to grow that monster 1370 I say "throw it in!"

as stated,,,they won't breakdown over winter, come spring start turning the pile, if it doesn't heat add some hot material (alfalfa meal works well) to get the steam going, a few turns it will be finished. Remember you need 140-160° internal pile temp to cook the weeds and most bad guys, as that temp drops the composting is finished. Best to let the pile age under a cover for a few months ready to use come fall.

12/17/2009 3:00:37 PM

SE Minnesota

Dan what do you use to cover the pumpkins with?? will a good old fashioned heavy tarp work?? and i'm thinking the 1370 may be beginners luck..next year will be the real test, here's hoping for some bigger numbers

12/17/2009 6:27:55 PM

I use blankets for keeping them warm, white sheets for the sun, a tarp or plastic sheet off t-stakes to protect from rain and sun

the "structure" with the tarp/sheeting really should be on all plants if possible, sometimes I get lazy

do as I say, not as I do ,,,,comes to mind

12/17/2009 6:42:29 PM