Content
- So that the compost can work in winter
- Preparations in autumn
- structural material
- Protection from rain and snow
- Additional measures
Before winter, the compost should be redeployed
So that the compost can work in winter
The processes in the compost should not go to a standstill in winter, otherwise unwanted processes may occur. If you pay attention to some aspects and protect the compost properly, you promote the decay at low temperatures.
Preparations in autumn
Thoroughly mix the compost in the autumn so that the moisture is optimally distributed. A redeployment is used for ventilation, so that the rotting processes are positively influenced. This measure reduces the formation of rot in spring. On this occasion, you can remove a portion of the substrate and store it in a frost-protected location in the garden house or in the garage. This will give you an ideal approach to creating a new compost next spring.
structural material
In winter, the compost needs structural material such as straw or shredded remains of tree and shrub cuts. The material ensures that the compost content remains relaxed. Cold winter temperatures cause the cells of the organic material to freeze. When thawing in the spring they burst and give off fluid. It forms with insufficient ventilation, a rotting mass, emanating unpleasant odors.
Collect fallen leaves and shrubs in autumn, which you can dry in a warm place. Mince the remnants and mix them with the kitchen waste before adding them to the compost.
Ideal for the compost is a mixture of:
Protection from rain and snow
In winter, you must protect the compost from rain and snow so that it does not accumulate too much moisture inside. Cover an open compost with a jute sack. Alternatively, a compost fleece or a mulch film is recommended. Airtight covers such as plastic films are unsuitable because they promote unwanted decay processes. The microorganisms in the compost need oxygen for their metabolism to work.
Additional measures
Add small amounts of wood ash a week to the compost. The ash contains lime, phosphate and potassium, which produce a balance of organic acids and bases. Take care to use sparingly so as not to salt the substrate. Too large amounts of wood ash damage the soil organisms. Coal ash is not suitable for compost because the content of heavy metals is very high.