nateleg
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Joined: Sat Oct 01, 2016 1:45 am

Fish Air Pump Stone for Aeration and Oxygenation?

I have a couple large compost bins that don't seem to be getting enough aeration. They stink. I was thinking of running a small air pump to help with getting more air into the middle of the pile so that I don't have to manually turn it as often. I have Googled this and I don't see this idea mentioned anywhere. I can't be the first one to try this, am I? I was thinking of putting it on a timer in the winter time and only running during the day when the temperatures are warmer. I figure that if it runs at night, the cold air won't be as beneficial.

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rainbowgardener
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Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 6:04 pm
Location: TN/GA 7b

If your compost pile is stinky, it probably does not have enough "browns" in it. (If you are not familiar with "browns" and "greens" and C:N ratio for composting check out these introductory threads: https://www.helpfulgardener.com/forum/vi ... 35&t=29022 https://www.helpfulgardener.com/forum/vi ... 35&t=56881 ) Try just adding more browns (fall leaves, shredded paper, straw, corn cobs, etc) and mixing them in. Cover with a layer of browns over the top. If you aren't getting much rain, water your pile occasionally to keep it moistened.

I doubt the air stone would have enough power to force air through the pile.

If you really think (after adding browns) that your pile needs more oxygenation, try just sticking a couple PVC pipes with holes in them down into the pile and sticking out the top. If the center of your pile is warming up, then the temperature gradient will create air flow through the pipe (warm air rises).

Here's someone doing it, although personally I would have made the pipes vertical
Image

Best wishes, let us know what works for you.



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