And, by adding only wet, green materials without dry, brown bulking agents like leaves, odors may develop. Moisture is often overlooked and plays a key role in composting. In hotter climates, a cover will retain a compost pile s moisture. Plastic, wood chips or straw can be used. Covering helps to keep piles moist in summer and prevents them from getting too soggy in the rain or snow.
Fresh compost has a pleasant aroma.
Foul odors occur only where there is a lack of oxygen or when there is too much wet, green material and too little brown material. Odors can be alleviated by turning or poking the pile and mixing green and brown materials together. Mulch is any material used to cover soil in order to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Shredded yard clippings make an excellent mulch. Compost can also be used as a mulch.