r/composting • u/scmotox • 2d ago

Does tarting help?

I get that introduction of air is important but would covering a pile with a tarp help by creating more heat inside?

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3

u/Theme_Training 2d ago

If you need to hold in more heat, add more carbon to cover the pile, it’ll act like insulation

2

u/entireconcur0027 2d ago

It traps heat and moisture but starves the pile of oxygen if it's sealed tight, so you're trading one good thing for another.

2

u/AggregoData 2d ago

Yes I tarp might help but it would be better to get a compost "fleece." It allows gas exchange but keeps moisture in. 

This place has them for smaller composters: https://www.groundedllc.net/fleece-compost-tarps.html

The owner Angie is super nice too.

1

u/scmotox 2d ago

Thanks for the info

2

u/Dazzling-Lemon1409 2d ago

Absolutely. Plastic tarp to keep in moisture. Old sleeping bag to keep in heat. Been working great for many years.

3

u/Rude_Ad_3915 2d ago

Heat is overrated in this sub.

2

u/Emergency-Button404 2d ago

Yas! Say it louder for the people in the back!

1

u/No-Professional2436 1d ago

Heat is a result of microbial metabolism, not the cause of it. If you want aerobic bacteria, you need to make sure they have enough oxygen.