Hi all. I’m new to composting and will be building a 3-bin system this weekend. I wanted your input on if you would compost this muck which has been in the pool of the home I purchased. It seems to be comprised mainly of leaves and dead plants. Would you compost it? If so, what would you add to balance it out? Thank you kindly. I’m learning so much from this sub.
by Impressive_Echo_4200
6 Comments
Was it there when pool water was in it? I would be concerned about pool chemicals.
Looks like good stuff. I guess the only issue would be chlorine? But I have no idea if any chlorine remains – hopefully someone else will. At any rate, would work for ornamentals/flowers. It may be balanced already if it’s dead leaves and rotting green material?
That’s practically composted already. That’s perfect compost starter. Add some more browns to it.
I would mix it in for sure. Chances are it’s already composting, and you’ll get some good microbiology. Coming out of winter and seeing that it’s been sitting a while, it could be anaerobic. You will know if it’s stinky…if this is the case, just put it at the bottom or mix in
more fine browns.
Absolutely. I love when I leave an empty bin/tote/pot outside and it gets full of dirty rainwater, leaves and bugs. I happily add it to my compost pile.
Whether you need to add anything to “balance it out” will depend on the current composition of your pile. If it the pile looks super wet, or if it smells bad after a few days, maybe add more browns (dead leaves, shredded cardboard, paper etc) to balance out the moisture. Otherwise just dump it in, mix it around and let it cook. You can’t really go wrong here.
Good? It’s Grrrreat!!!