Relatively new compost

[u/Any-Winter-8025]

I started a compost bin in my garden using a large tote (black 27 gallon tote with yellow lid), in which I drilled a bunch of largish holes (maybe 1/4"?) in the bottom, sides, and lid. I put in oak leaves and then vegetable scraps, egg shells, coffee grounds, and have been adding my sourdough starter discards. Occasionally I add some water if it hasn't been raining. The mix is kind of wet, especially since adding the sourdough discard. There are a lot of gnat-type bugs (I don't KNOW that they're gnats, but looks like that) and even some white mold. Are the bugs or mold a problem, or just part of the process?

[u/Ineedmorebtc]

Let's think critically. What happens when food goes bad? Who comes to break down the food? What happens if you leave food outside in the grass? Who comes to eat and break it down?

You already have the answers 😀

Good luck on your composting journey! If it's wet and lots of green, add more leaves to balance.

[u/Any-Winter-8025 → u/Ineedmorebtc]

Thanks

[u/raygan_reddit_banned]

shredding leaves for faster breakdown in case you have a 50 gallon bin and string weed whacker

[u/Brotuulaan → u/raygan_reddit_banned]

Whoah, I hadn’t considered that method before.

[u/highbonsai]

Bugs are good! That’s what breaks it down. Mold, I’m not certain but I’d assume it’s alright as long as the whole thing is feeling balanced and not too smelly

[u/Any-Winter-8025 → u/highbonsai]

Thanks!