Compost Calculator

Successful composting requires balancing carbon-rich 'brown' materials with nitrogen-rich 'green' materials. The ideal ratio is approximately 30:1 (carbon to nitrogen). This calculator helps you determine the right mix of materials.

1. 1

   Step 1

   Enter your desired total compost volume

2. 2

   Step 2: Specify your target C

   N ratio (30:1 is recommended)

3. 3

   Step 3

   The calculator determines the proportion of greens and browns needed

4. 4

   Step 4

   Review the volumes of each material type required

• 1

  Browns include dry leaves, straw, cardboard, and wood chips

• 2

  Greens include grass clippings, food scraps, coffee grounds, and manure

• 3

  Turn compost every 1-2 weeks to speed decomposition

• 4

  Proper moisture is key - compost should feel like a wrung-out sponge

• 5

  Hot composting (130-160F) kills weed seeds and pathogens

• Adding too many greens, causing smelly, anaerobic conditions

• Not maintaining adequate moisture levels

• Making the pile too small to generate sufficient heat

• Including meat, dairy, or diseased plants that attract pests