Discover common composting issues and their solutions in this comprehensive guide. Learn how to troubleshoot your composting process and achieve successful results.

1. Composting is a wonderful way to reduce waste, create nutrient-rich soil,
and contribute to a sustainable environment. However, even the most
seasoned composters can encounter challenges along the way. In this
article, we will address common issues that arise during the composting
process and provide practical solutions to overcome them.
Common Issues in Composting
1. Smell
The truth is that compost should not smell bad at all. The main causes
of odor in compost are an imbalance in the carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N)
ratio and insufficient airflow. According to the University of Illinois
Extension, a C/N ratio of 25-30:1 is ideal for composting without
generating excessive odors. Adding high-carbon materials like dry
leaves or shredded paper can help balance the ratio. Besides, a lack of
air, i.e., oxygen deficiency, is the main problem that leads to anaerobic
(without oxygen) conditions within the compost pile.
Having good aeration throughout the pile is necessary to provide an
optimal aerobic (with oxygen) environment for all the active
microorganisms (like bacteria) that do the magic and turn all the
green waste materials into nice, nutrient-rich compost. If that is not
the case and anaerobic conditions are predominant, fermenting
processes will cause the heap to be smelly and wet.
Solution: Adjusting Carbon-to-Nitrogen Ratio
Achieving the right balance in the C/N ratio is crucial for successful
composting. By adding high-carbon (brown) materials such as dried
leaves, straw, or shredded paper, along with high-nitrogen (green)
materials like grass clippings or kitchen scraps, you can maintain an
optimal C/N ratio.
Avoid overloading your heap with too many heavy materials. It is
better to add smaller particle sizes and quantities of materials to the
compost.

2. This allows the organisms to break it down much easier and faster, as
smaller pieces of material have a larger surface area for the organisms
to work on compared to bigger pieces that have a smaller surface area.
If you have a lot of green waste, it is useful to have more than one
compost bin so you can separate the piles into a new material pile, a
turning pile, and a matured or finished pile.
Avoid adding layers of soil within the compost heap. It is good to mix
some soil into a heap to initiate the composting process by adding
worms and other active organisms to it.
However, placing too many layers of soil within the heap and on top of
each layer of waste material can destroy the compost heap. The layers
of soil cause the heap to compress, which will lead to a smelly and wet
mix that takes ages to decompose.
Conclusively, it is important to provide aerobic conditions throughout
the compost heap. To accomplish this, you must turn your heap on a
regular basis.
2. Slow Decomposition
Slow decomposition can be frustrating for composters who are eager
to obtain usable compost quickly. Several factors can contribute to
slow decomposition, including inadequate carbon and nitrogen
content, insufficient moisture, and lack of oxygen. To accelerate
decomposition, shredding or chopping materials into smaller pieces
can increase the surface area for microbial activity. Maintaining
proper moisture levels, around 40-60%, and turning the compost pile
regularly to provide oxygen will also expedite the decomposition
process.
Solution: Enhancing Aeration
Oxygen is essential for the decomposition process, as it promotes the
growth of aerobic microorganisms responsible for breaking down

3. organic matter. Turning or mixing the compost pile regularly with a
garden fork or compost aerator will ensure proper aeration. Aim to
turn the pile every few weeks or when the temperature drops below
100°F (38°C) to maintain optimal conditions for decomposition.
3. Pest Infestation
Some critters, such as worms, are beneficial to compost piles, but
that’s not true about all of them. If you’re having a problem with
animals disturbing your compost pile and digging up scraps, this is
almost always because you’re using materials that should not be
composted. Meat, dairy products, and other items that are high in fat
should never be used in a compost pile. Everything that you DO add
should be buried deeply and completely. If a pest infestation occurs,
consider creating barriers around the compost pile or using natural
pest deterrents like diatomaceous earth or nematodes.
Solution: Properly Covering Food Scraps
Covering food scraps in the compost pile serves multiple purposes. It
helps control odors, prevents pests from being attracted to the pile,
and maintains moisture levels. Use a layer of dry leaves, straw, or
compost cover to cover food scraps and ensure they are well
incorporated into the compost pile. Adding a lid is another way to keep
animals out; there are many designs, include do-it-yourself varieties
that are sturdy enough to keep almost any unwanted animal out while
still provide adequate circulation and drainage for the compost.
4. Excessive Moisture
Excessive moisture in the compost pile can impede the decomposition
process and create a soggy, anaerobic environment. To address this
issue, it is important to balance moisture levels. If the compost is too
wet, add dry materials such as shredded newspaper, straw, or sawdust
to absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, turning the pile more
frequently can promote evaporation and improve aeration.
Solution: Balancing Moisture Levels

4. Monitoring and managing moisture levels in the compost pile is
crucial. A compost pile should feel like a damp sponge, not too dry or
waterlogged. If the pile is too dry, sprinkle water evenly while turning
the compost. Conversely, if it is too wet, add dry materials and
increase turning frequency to enhance evaporation and improve
aeration.
5. Nutrient Imbalances
Nutrient imbalances in compost can affect the quality of the final
product. Common imbalances include excessive nitrogen, resulting in
an ammonia-like smell, or insufficient nitrogen, causing slow
decomposition. Adjusting the C/N ratio by adding high-nitrogen
materials like grass clippings or vegetable scraps can rectify
imbalances. Furthermore, incorporating diverse materials, such as
eggshells or coffee grounds, can enrich the compost with essential
nutrients.
Solution: Adding Amendments
Incorporating organic amendments can enhance the nutrient content
and overall quality of the compost. Examples of beneficial
amendments include crushed eggshells for added calcium, coffee
grounds for nitrogen, or rock phosphate for phosphorus. Prioritize
using locally available, organic amendments that align with your
composting goals.
Conclusion
Composting is an eco-friendly practice that empowers individuals to
reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for their gardens. By
addressing common issues such as odor, slow decomposition, pest
infestation, excessive moisture, and nutrient imbalances, composters
can overcome challenges and achieve successful composting results.
Remember to follow best practices, maintain a balanced compost pile,
and adapt your composting techniques based on specific needs and
environmental conditions.

5. FAQs
How often should I turn my compost pile?
Turning your compost pile every 1-2 weeks helps enhance aeration and
decomposition. However, the frequency may vary depending on
factors such as temperature, moisture, and the materials used.
What should I do if my compost pile becomes too
dry?
If your compost isn’t moist enough, then simply adding water is often
all you need to do, and monitor thereafter to ensure it does not dry out
again. Adding more green materials like grass clippings, tea bags, and
vegetable trimmings will also aid in moisture retention.
How long does it typically take to produce usable
compost?
The time required to produce usable compost can vary based on
several factors, including the composting method, materials used, and
environmental conditions. Generally, it takes around 3 to 6 months for
compost to mature and be ready for use in the garden.
Article source: https://howtocomposter.com/composting-
troubleshooting/