The secret to creating rich compost is in balancing the carbon-nitrogen ratio (C:N).
Decomposition of organic materials in your compost pile is greatly increased when you create the proper balance between the carbonaceous materials (called BROWN because they are dry) and the nitrogen-rich materials (called GREEN because they are more fresh and moist).
Compost scientists have determined that the fastest way to produce fertile, sweet-smelling compost is to maintain a C:N ratio somewhere around 25 to 30 parts Carbon to 1 part Nitrogen, or 25-30:1.
If the C:N ratio is too high (excess Carbon), decomposition slows down. If the C:N ratio is too low (excess nitrogen) you will end up with a stinky pile.
Read the full article, here: http://www.homecompostingmadeeasy.com/carbonnitrogenratio.htm
Similar Posts:
- Composting Materials: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
- The Add-As-You-Go Compost Pile
- Glorious Leaf Mould
- 4 Useful Applications for Coffee Grounds in the Garden
- 3 Ways to Make Your Own Banana Peel Liquid Fertilizer