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Thermophilic composting is a method of composting that relies on the activity of heat-loving microorganisms to break down organic materials into nutrient-rich compost. The term “thermophilic” refers to organisms that thrive in high-temperature environments. In the context of composting, thermophilic microorganisms play a crucial role in accelerating the decomposition process. Advantages of thermophilic composting include faster decomposition, pathogen and weed seed reduction due to high temperatures, and the production of a nutrient-rich compost that can enhance soil fertility.

Here’s a basic overview of the thermophilic composting process:

1. Material Selection: Thermophilic composting involves using a mix of organic materials that provide a balance of carbon and nitrogen. Carbon-rich materials include dry leaves, straw, and shredded newspaper, while nitrogen-rich materials include kitchen scraps, green plant matter, and manure. Proper aeration is also important, so bulky materials like wood chips or shredded cardboard can help maintain airflow.
2. Pile Construction: Arrange the composting materials in a pile or bin, ensuring a good mix of carbon and nitrogen sources. The pile’s size is important for heat generation, typically ranging from 3 to 5 feet in height and width.
3. Moisture Control: Adequate moisture is crucial for microbial activity, but excessive moisture can lead to anaerobic conditions and unpleasant odors. Keep the compost pile moist, similar to a wrung-out sponge.
4. Aeration: Regular turning or aerating of the compost pile is essential. This introduces oxygen, which supports the growth of aerobic microorganisms. Turning the pile also helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the formation of anaerobic pockets.
5. Temperature Monitoring: Thermophilic microorganisms generate heat as they break down organic matter. The pile’s temperature can rise significantly, often reaching temperatures between 130 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit (54 to 71 degrees Celsius). Monitoring the temperature helps ensure that the composting process is effective.
6. Curing Phase: Once the initial thermophilic phase is complete and the compost pile has cooled, it enters a curing phase. During this stage, beneficial microorganisms continue to work, and the compost stabilizes. Curing can take several weeks to a few months.

It’s important to note that successful thermophilic composting requires attention to the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, moisture levels, and proper aeration. Additionally, ensuring that the compost pile reaches and maintains high temperatures is key to the effectiveness of the process.

If you’re intrigued so far, you may also like my post on how to brew Compost Tea.

Thermophilic Composting Methods

Compost Heap / Pile:

There are many ways to implement thermophilic composting. A compost heap or pile is the simplest method, arranging organic materials in such a way as to facilitate the natural process of decomposition. It should be located in a designated area of a garden or yard where there is good drainage. Moreover, it should be easily accessible for turning and monitoring. Some people like to enclose their compost pile in a fenced-in area. Additionally, creating multiple spaces for composting allows you to separate piles started at different times with differing levels of maturity.

Compost Bin:

If you do not have the space to maintain a compost pile, but you would still like to enjoy the benefits of composting, an alternative would be to maintain a simple compost bin.

Note: I also recommend turning your compost in these types of bins to keep it aerobic, as well as monitoring the moisture level. Thermophilic composting can still happen in bins like these. However, you really need to pay close attention to your inputs, oxygen, and moisture levels.

There are many styles of bins to choose from, but I recommend finding one with good aeration that is spinnable for easy mixing of materials. Here’s my top pick!

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If you would like a static setup instead, you may prefer a composting bin like this one.

Aerated Static Pile (ASP):

An aerated static pile is a composting system that combines the principles of forced aeration with the simplicity of a static or non-turning compost pile. Unlike traditional thermophilic compost piles that rely on periodic turning for aeration, an aerated static pile uses a system to actively introduce air into the composting material, promoting efficient decomposition. Larger-scale composting operations, such as municipal composting facilities and commercial composting operations employ this method, but you can implement an ASP system in your own yard or garden.

I’ll be writing an article about how to construct a small-scale ASP system in the near future. If you would like to be notified by email whenever I post new content, please subscribe to the email list by filling out the form at the bottom of this page.

Compost Windrow:

A compost windrow is a long, narrow pile of organic materials that is arranged in rows to facilitate the composting process. This is an effective and scalable method for managing organic waste on a large scale. Compost windrows are commonly used in agricultural settings for soil improvement, in municipal composting facilities for waste diversion, and in various other applications where large volumes of organic materials need to be efficiently processed into nutrient-rich compost.