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Composting problems answeredBy Tara McKnight Texas Cooperative Extension agent, horticulture, Wichita County Many homeowners who decide to create their own compost have problems along the way. In this article we will go over some of the common composting symptoms, what the problem is along with how to correct it. I hope this helps you diagnose your composting problems and get on the right track to fixing them. If you do not currently have a compost bin, now is a great time of year to make one. Symptom 1: Pile is wet and smells like mixture of rancid butter, vinegar and rotten eggs. Problem: Compost needs more air, it has too much "fresh" material (too wet or too much nitrogen). --How to fix it: Turn the pile and add dry material such as wood shavings, wood chips, or dry leaves. If pile is very wet provide drainage. If the odor must be stopped fast don't turn it. Bury it in soil or finished compost for a few months and start, another pile. Symptom 2: Pile is not breaking down. Problem: Pile is dry. --How to fix it: Turn pile and add water until the pile is moist. Problem: Pile is damp and sweet-smelling. --How to fix it: Add higher-nitrogen materials like green grass clippings or manure. Symptom 3: Pile is not warm enough or is warm only deep in the center of the pile (it should heat up to over 130 F). --Problem: Pile is too small. --How to fix it: Incorporate materials into a bigger pile or put them into a container. Symptom 4: Pile contains insects and larvae. --Problem: Meat, other animal products, and food have been added. --How to fix it: Minimize pests by burying food materials deep in the pile and keep the temperature of the pile high. It should have the dampness of a wrung-out sponge. Any other insect in your pile is probably a harmless compositor. Symptom 5: Fire ants. --Problem: Pile is dry. --How to fix it: Turn it and add water. A low-toxicity bait formulation can be used near but not in the pile. Your garden and landscape questions are always welcome. Contact McKnight at 940-716-8610, or by e-mail, tcmcknight@ag.tamu.edu. You are always encouraged to visit the Wichita County Master Gardner website at www.overthegardengate.org. Another great website to visit for very useful garden hints and answers is http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/. This article, along with every article, will also be featured on www.joetomwhite.com 24 hours a day under county agents.
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