4 Steps to Check Off NOW for a Happy Cold Weather Compost Pile Later

As late summer begins to transition into early fall, the air in Colorado gets a little crisper and the days get shorter. This is the perfect time to give your compost pile some attention before the colder weather sets in. The work you do now will help keep your pile active through the autumn and winter, and set you up for success next spring.

Microbial activity, the engine of your compost pile, slows down as temperatures drop. By taking a few steps in the next few weeks, you can give your pile a final boost of heat and energy.

Here’s what you can do to prepare:

• Check for Moisture. Colorado’s dry climate means piles can lose moisture quickly. Your compost should feel like a wrung-out sponge. If it’s dry, add water as you turn it. This is one of the most important steps to keep the decomposition process going.

• Give It a Good Turn. Aerating your pile is crucial. A thorough turn mixes materials, distributes moisture, and gets oxygen to the microorganisms. This will help the pile heat up one last time before the consistent cold arrives.

• Add Late-Summer Greens. Take advantage of your final garden cleanup. Add disease-free vegetable plants, annual flowers, and the last of the season's grass clippings to the pile. These nitrogen-rich "greens" provide the fuel your microbes need.

• Stockpile Browns. Soon, the leaves will start to fall. This is a valuable resource for any composter. Rake and save your dry leaves to serve as your carbon-rich "browns." Having a stockpile makes it easy to maintain a healthy balance in your pile

• throughout the fall and winter when materials are scarce.

A little preparation now ensures your compost will continue to break down over the cooler months. Your garden will thank you for it next year.

Happy Composting!