A small amount of grass clippings may be added to the leaves as the pile is being constructed. This greatly reduces the composting rate, and can produce unpleasant odors. Fresh vegetable peelings may be included, but do not add meat or grease because they may cause odors or attract pests. Unless leaves are collected in a very wet condition, add water while placing them in the pile. Without moisture, the microorganisms will not function.
Dead leaves lack adequate nitrogen for rapid decomposition.
Therefore, a high nitrogen fertilizer added to the pile may speed up decomposition. However, since leaves fall only for about 2 months a year, there are 10 months for decomposition before space is needed for the next batch. Fresh manure could be substituted, but it may cause odor problems. Ordinarily it is unnecessary to add ground limestone because the pile seldom becomes too acidic. If fertilizer has been added, an equivalent quantity of limestone will counteract any acidity.