I have this mega pile of 100% oak arborist chips (lots of foliage included), that i layered with fresh horse manure. The ratio is probably 3-1 chips to manure. I live in the PNW in zone 8b, where its rainy all winter long. Im hoping to use this mix as an addition to my new raised beds.
Should i cover the pile with a thick tarp to help trap heat throughout the winter? Or should i just leave it as is?
My other thought was to collect a tonne of maple leaves and cover the pile with those come end of October.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
by MrYehaw
12 Comments
Nice planters, where are the from?
PNW rain all winter could leach out a lot of nutrients I would think. I’d keep it covered after mounding it up a bit tighter.
That pile is likely to heat up very nicely with that awesome mix of ingredients. But it might not stay hot for more than a couple of weeks. So I’m not sure the tarp is necessary for retaining heat. It might still be good for keeping the pile from getting too soggy. I think that might be beneficial, but I’m actually not sure.
Maple leaves then tarp. Very jealous of your pile.
I’m in PNW and also have a lot of chips- I cover mine.
Go for a [compost fleece tarp](https://www.cvcompost.com/product-information) to shed water but still allow transfer of air to ensure an aerobic pile
*not a referral to that company. Simply just linked an example so please do your research on where you want to support
I would make a little volcano shape and fill it with coffee grounds. When that reduces do again maybe with more diverse nitrogen sources and maybe one more time before covering the volcano with chips and letting rain add nitrogen through the winter.
look into hugelkultur, you could use this stuff as is.
Don’t get me wrong, this is better.
You’ll have awesome veggie beds next year!
I’d definitely cover it with a tarp for the winter, especially with all the rain you get in the PNW. Otherwise it’ll get way too soggy and probably leach out nutrients. You want it warm and moist, not waterlogged. I usually put an old tarp over my compost to keep it just right and it helps it break down faster.
I would make a round cage with chicken wire (tight enough to keep most inside) and shovel it all into there so it’s a little taller. Then I would cover it just on top unless it needs the rain.
Maybe too much work for what you’re doing but I think this would compost the best over winter.
Tropical climate here 👋
Why not put it right in those beds and cover the bed to trap heat ?
I’m only mildly educated but have you added any lime? To help with the PH. Seems like you’ve got everything else in check. Just wondering