Compost Science: Understanding and Optimising Decomposition

The Thermophilic Compost PileA properly managed hot compost pile reaches 55–70°C in its core — hot enough to kill most weed seeds and pathogens, and producing finished, stable compost in as little as 4–8 weeks. Most garden compost bins never reach these temperatures because they lack the critical mass, the right C:N ratio, or sufficient moisture. Understanding the science allows you to optimise every pile.Carbon:Nitrogen RatioThe C:N ratio is the fundamental parameter of composting. The i…