Keep old compost or start over.

[kelly714]

I started a compost bin behind my garage two years ago. I added to it for a while, but stopped actively adding to it about a year ago. The last thing I added was my tomato vines in the fall. I stopped adding things because I was afraid to attract critters, but I really want the compost, so I will have to ramp up my efforts to deter them. Anyway, should I trash the stuff that is in there or just start adding and turning?

[DoubleDogFarm]

Why throw away a perfectly good soil amendment. Is this year old pile finished? I would use a shovel full or two from this pile to inoculate the new pile and use the rest.

Eric

[kelly714]

The old stuff in not very decomposed, mostly lumps and stuff. Still keep it?

[DoubleDogFarm]

Build a frame out of 2x4's and nail or staple 1/2" hardware cloth to it. Make the frame large enough to fit over a wheelbarrow. Shovel the compost into this and shake. The good stuff will go through and the rest goes back into the new pile.

Eric

[OzarkAggie]

The smaller the particle size the quicker your compost materials will break down. From your original post it seems that you are simply adding material - such as the tomato vines - without mulching them.

I use a lawn mower with a mulch blade to grind up leaves. I block the discharge so they don't blow around - but if you have a grass catcher that works as well or better.

After mulching the pile start a new pile and mix in grass clippings. The interior of the pile should heat up. When it begins to coll down - about 3-4 weeks - turn the pile.

I've used various types of frames but they're not necessary. Optimum height of the pile is 4 foot so mound loose materials as high as you can.

Good Gardening!