How do I turn or mix my compost?

Laurie
by Laurie

I have a compost pile that hasn't been turned since large branches were put in by accident & it froze over the winter. I don't know if I should use a pitch fork or a shovel, or if there is something else that you would recommend?

  5 answers
  • Nancy Turner Nancy Turner on Apr 05, 2019

    A pitch fork would probably be the easiest to turn it and take out the big branches. It may also let in more air while you are turning it and break up any larger chunks from the weight of the pile.

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Apr 05, 2019

    You will find a pitch fork is best for this now. Remove the large branches when you can so the remainder is easier to work with, I have a composter that you can turn, like a barrel, and it works beautifully without all of that manual work.

  • Deb K Deb K on Apr 05, 2019

    Hi Laurie, this may help

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4iBxmfETn4

  • Hi Laurie - Here's a great 101-style article on getting started with composting and everything you ever need to know. Also how we DIY'ed building our compost bin. My Stepson built it for a Boy Scout merit badge. Hope this all helps and happy composting! Hugs, Holly

    https://pinkfortitude.com/composting/

    https://pinkfortitude.com/compost-bin/

  • John John on Apr 06, 2019

    Mine's in 55gal. barrel, I use a good heavy duty spading fork, works better than a regular pitch fork. I can stick it in the compost twist it easily.