How to Keep Composting Through Winter

With the right insulation, materials, and moisture management, your compost pile will continue to decompose even under cold winter conditions.
How to Keep Composting Through Winter
Just because old man winter has come to town doesn’t mean you have to stop composting. Mike Harrington/Getty Images
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Composting diverts organic waste from landfills, reduces gas emissions, and creates nutrient-rich soil. That’s why many gardeners love composting. But what happens to your compost pile in the winter?

Although the weather has both positive and negative impacts on outdoor composting, freezing temperatures and excessive precipitation create challenging conditions. But your composting doesn’t have to stop in the winter. It’s all in how you prepare and maintain your pile.

Finished Compost

Before you start, harvest any finished compost to make room for winter additions. Compost piles up quickly in the winter because decomposition is slow. Harvesting is critical if you are working with small bins or tumblers.
Anne Johnson
Anne Johnson
Author
Anne Johnson was a commercial property and casualty insurance agent for nine years. She was also licensed in health and life insurance. She went on to own an advertising agency, where she worked with businesses. She has been writing about personal finance for 10 years.