Thanks to recent rains the grass is growing rapidly at my house. We normally leave the clippings in place to return nutrients back to the soil. But I’ve decided after my husband mows the next time that I’ll rake up the clippings to rev up my compost pile.
It’s been hard to keep it moist this summer with the long spells of very dry weather and a compost pile needs moisture for effective decomposition to occur. By adding the grass clippings to my pile, I’ll give it a boost of nitrogen. I will also give it a good turning and water it thoroughly.
The microorganisms that do the composting need water to function. The moisture content of a compost pile should be ideally between 40 and 60 percent. The compost should feel moist when you squeeze a handful.
Nitrogen is important as well. If there is too little nitrogen, the microbial population will not grow to an optimum size and decomposition slows down.
By doing this, my compost pile should begin to heat up again and the decomposition process will speed up.
For more information on composting contact your local Extension office or visit our online publication Backyard Composting.