As the organic material in your compost bin begins to decompose the pile will shrink. Sometimes odors arise if compost remains wet for long periods of time, or if excessive amounts of wet plant material are added to the bin. If odors arise simply untie your bin and turn the compost. Some sources recommend that compost be turned once a month. Turning your pile once a month is not critical, but it does help hasten decomposition and prevent odors.
Compost can be available from the bin anytime between six months and two years.
Compost is dark with a crumbly texture and an earthy smell. These characteristics indicate that the compost has stabilized or matured, and that it is ready to be put to work enhancing your garden. Once your compost has matured into black gold the uses for this material are endless. Compost can be used as a top dressing around flowers, shrubs and trees, or when screened it can be applied to lawn areas. Compost can be incorporated into flower and vegetable gardens.