Easy⏱ timeWeeks$ cost5
Compost Temperature Log
Track how a compost pile heats up as microbes break down waste.
Start building ↓
Result first
The build
Step 01
Build the pile
Layer green and brown waste.
Step 02
Add moisture
Keep it damp, not soggy.
Step 03
Measure daily
Record the centre temperature.
Step 04
Turn & repeat
Turn the pile and watch heat return.
Working Principle
Microbes digesting the waste release heat, so the pile's core warms; turning it adds oxygen and reignites the activity.
The science behind it
A closer look
Decomposition is exothermic microbial respiration; temperature tracks how active the microbes are.
Take it further
Variables to test
- 1 Compare turned vs unturned piles.
- 2 Add more 'greens' — hotter pile?
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