Pile Aeration

Getting Air to Your Decomposers

Warm air rising through the pile through the pile draws fresh air in from bottom and sides. Wind can also stimulate aeration.

Pile Aeration

This depends upon adequate porosity (air-filled space between particles) of the materials being composted:

Aeration
  • Browns help to maintain good porosity in the pile.
  • A compacted pile that has lost porosity can be increased by turning the pile (turning tools can help make this job easier).
  • Aeration can also be increased by inserting sticks, cornstalks, or perforated pipes into or under the pile.