Do not use wood ashes or lime for composting in Colorado. Both increase salt and alkalinity that leads to a loss of nitrogen in the form of ammonia gas. If the compost is properly mixed and maintained, a final product may be obtained in one to two months under optimum summer conditions. In other seasons, or with less maintenance, composting may require six months to one year. When complete, the mass will be about half its original size and have an earthy smell.
Maintenance consists of sustaining the required conditions for effective decomposition.
Although conditions may be present at the start of the process, if they are not maintained as the compost mass changes over time, decomposition will decrease or stop. Proper moisture and air levels are especially important. Dry plant wastes will quickly stop composting. Plant materials often dry on the outside while the center remains moist. Water consistently to keep compost uniformly moist but not wet.