The materials in compost need high temperatures. They arise from the decomposition of the material during rotting. Nutritious, well-fertilizing compost is only created at sufficiently high temperatures. What is the temperature in the compost heap?
What is the temperature in the compost heap?
The temperature in the compost heap varies depending on the rotting phase: 1. pre-rotting (up to 40 degrees), 2. hot rotting (up to 60 degrees), 3. main rotting (up to 40 degrees), 4. post-rotting (up to 30 degrees). Hot compost promotes decomposition and forms nutritious, well-fertilizing compost.
Compost temperature in the garden
The decomposition process in compost takes place in four phases. The temperatures fluctuate considerably:
- Phase 1: up to 40 degrees (pre-rotting)
- Phase 2: up to 60 degrees (hot rot)
- Phase 3: up to 40 degrees (main rot)
- Phase 4: up to 30 degrees (post-rotting)
Pre-rotting takes up to two weeks. Hot rotting is usually completed after twelve weeks.
It makes sense to measure the temperature of the compost in the garden from time to time. When using thermal composters, temperature measurement is usually not necessary.
Tip
On very hot days, you should water the compost once. If the material becomes too dry, the microorganisms will not survive. Woodlice in particular always need slightly moist compost.
