Hot Composting Method
A structured hot composting method that produces finished compost in 4-6 weeks. Uses thermophilic decomposition with regular temperature monitoring and turning. Suitable for garden waste, kitchen scraps, and manure.
Version History
Version 1.0 Current
Effective: 2026-03-24Initial version
Procedure Details
Wear gloves when handling compost. Wash hands after contact. Avoid inhaling dust from dry compost materials. Do not compost meat, dairy, or diseased plant material.
Gather materials before starting:
- Carbon-rich (brown) materials: straw, dry leaves, cardboard, wood chips
- Nitrogen-rich (green) materials: kitchen scraps, grass clippings, manure, fresh plant trimmings
- Aim for approximately 25-30:1 carbon to nitrogen ratio by volume (roughly 3 parts brown to 1 part green)
- Water source nearby
- Compost thermometer (50cm probe)
Procedure Steps (Version 1.0)
Choose a level, well-drained site at least 1m x 1m. Direct soil contact is ideal for drainage and microbial inoculation.
Build the pile in layers: start with a 15cm layer of coarse brown material (sticks, straw) for airflow at the base.
Alternate layers of green (5-10cm) and brown (10-15cm) materials. Wet each layer as you build — the pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge.
Build to at least 1m x 1m x 1m. Smaller piles will not retain enough heat for thermophilic composting.
Record the start date, materials used, and approximate volumes in your garden journal.
Check temperature daily with a compost thermometer inserted into the centre. Record the reading. The pile should reach 55-65°C within 2-4 days.
When the temperature drops below 45°C (usually after 4-7 days), turn the pile — move outer material to the centre. Add water if dry.
Continue monitoring and turning each time temperature drops below 45°C. Expect 3-5 turns over 4-6 weeks.
The compost is finished when it no longer heats up after turning, smells earthy (not ammonia), and original materials are unrecognisable. Temperature should stabilise near ambient.
Cure for 2-4 weeks before use. Screen if desired. Record the finish date and quality observations.