• Hot compost (fastest): Build big (≥1 yd³), 2 parts browns : 1 part greens; moisture = wrung-sponge; turn when 130–160°F peaks and starts to fall.

• Cool compost (low-effort): Add as you go; keep a browns “cover bucket”; chop scraps; fluff monthly; harvest when dark and crumbly.

• Worm compost (vermicompost): 10–12″ deep bin, 4–6″ moist bedding (shredded cardboard + coir/leaf mold); small weekly feeds; add mineral grit.

• Core principles: C:N ~30:1 (hot); moisture wrung-sponge; airflow via structure + fluffing; smaller pieces → faster.

• Odor rule: If it stinks, add dry browns & air. If it’s dry, mist & cover.

Quick starter mixes:

• Hot pile: 2 buckets browns + 1 bucket greens; add water as you layer; mix and monitor heat.

• Cool pile: 1 layer scraps → cover completely with shredded leaves/cardboard; repeat.

• Worm bedding: 60–70% shredded cardboard/paper + 30–40% coir/leaf mold; add 1–2 tbsp grit.

Next steps:

• Start a Worm Bin → /start-a-worm-bin

• Use Your Castings → /use-your-castings

• More Guides & Tools → /guides

• Updated: September 2025