Single hen

[prudance]

I have three large wooden compost heaps at the bottom of the garden. The 'final' heap is now filled with what can only be described as stinky black slime. The material in it must be 2 years old. Unfortunately the garden (and house ) was flooded summer 2007 and we had to move out for a year while repair work was carried out. We only carried out basic garden maintenance during this time so our compost bins were very wet and probably received 90% grass clippings.

 

It is rotting down, but way too slowly. Anybody got any ideas what we can mix in with it to kick start it? Have tried mixing in Garrotta and some leftover old compost. Or should I just call it a day and put it back in my first heap in layers with our chicken poo and kitchen waste?

[Guest]

torn up newspaper/cardboard to counteract the wetness, human urine and/or coffee grounds make good compost activator.

[Guest]

this is helpful

 

http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/grapevine/digging-around/slimy-compost-bin_12620.html

[Redwing]

I agree with Poet, you need some paper (shredded is great) and/or cardboard in there, scrunch it up to make lots of air pockets then turn the slime in to a new bin mixing in the paper as you go, its worth it as this will be ready on no time. Fold the cardboard to make tube shapes to get maximum air in to the heap

 

Straw or woodshavings will also do the job but they take longer to break down and it sounds like the compost is nearly there so it shouldn't be your first choice of action.

[The Dogmother]

If mine gets too wet, I layer it with some Aubiose and chicken poo from the run - sorted!

[prudance]

Thanks everyone!