Compost Turner: 10 Essential Points Beyond the Basics

What is a Compost Turner?

A compost turner is a machine used to aerate and mix compost piles. Aeration is essential for the composting process, as it provides oxygen to the microorganisms that break down organic matter. Mixing the pile helps to distribute the oxygen and moisture evenly throughout the pile, and it also helps to prevent the formation of anaerobic pockets, which can lead to the production of foul odors.

Why Use a Compost Turner?

There are many benefits to using a compost turner. Some of the benefits include:

• Faster composting: Compost turners can help to speed up the composting process by providing aeration and mixing the pile. This can reduce the amount of time it takes to produce finished compost by up to 50%.
• Improved compost quality: Compost turners can help to improve the quality of compost by ensuring that it is properly aerated and mixed. This results in a compost that is more nutrient-rich and has a more uniform texture.
• Reduced odor: Compost turners can help to reduce odor by preventing the formation of anaerobic pockets. This can make composting more pleasant and less disruptive to neighbors.
• Easier to use: Compost turners are relatively easy to use, even for beginners. They can be operated by one person, and they require minimal maintenance.

Types of Compost Turners

There are two main types of compost turners:

• Manual compost turners: Manual compost turners are powered by hand. They are typically smaller and less expensive than motorized compost turners, and they are ideal for small composting operations.
• Motorized compost turners: Motorized compost turners are powered by an electric motor. They are typically larger and more expensive than manual compost turners, but they are also more powerful and efficient. Motorized compost turners are ideal for large composting operations.

How to Choose a Compost Turner

When choosing a compost turner, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Size of your composting operation: The size of your composting operation will determine the size of the compost turner that you need. If you have a small composting operation, a manual compost turner may be sufficient. However, if you have a large composting operation, you will need a motorized compost turner.
• Type of materials you will be composting: The type of materials you will be composting will also determine the type of compost turner that you need. If you will be composting mostly organic materials, a compost turner with a simple design may be sufficient. However, if you will be composting materials that are more difficult to break down, such as wood chips or manure, you will need a compost turner with a more powerful design.
• Budget: The cost of a compost turner will vary depending on the size, type, and features of the machine. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for a compost turner.

How to Use a Compost Turner

Once you have chosen a compost turner, it is important to learn how to use it properly. Here are some tips for using a compost turner:

• Start with a small pile: When you are first starting out, it is best to start with a small compost pile. This will make it easier to turn the pile and ensure that it is properly aerated.
• Turn the pile regularly: The frequency with which you turn the pile will depend on the type of materials you are composting and the temperature of the pile. However, as a general rule, you should turn the pile every 2-3 days.
• Mix the pile thoroughly: When you turn the pile, be sure to mix the materials thoroughly. This will help to distribute the oxygen and moisture evenly throughout the pile and prevent the formation of anaerobic pockets.
• Monitor the temperature of the pile: The temperature of the compost pile is an important indicator of the rate of decomposition. The ideal temperature for composting is between 140-160 degrees Fahrenheit. If the pile is too cold, the decomposition process will slow down. If the pile is too hot, the microorganisms that break down organic matter will be killed.

Tips and Tricks for Using a Compost Turner

Here are some tips and tricks for using a compost turner:

• Use a compost thermometer to monitor the temperature of the pile.
• Add water to the pile if it is too dry.
• Add organic materials to the pile if it is too wet.
• Cover the pile with a tarp to keep it moist and to prevent the formation of odors.
• Be patient. Composting takes time. Don't expect to have finished compost overnight.

Conclusion

Compost turners are a valuable tool for anyone who wants to compost. They can help to speed up the composting process, improve the quality of compost, reduce odor, and make composting easier. If you are considering starting a composting operation, I encourage you to invest in a compost turner.