The more carbon in the pile relative to nitrogen, the longer the decomposition process.
Excess nitrogen causes the pile to lose nitrogen to the atmosphere as ammonia gas.
When no nitrogen materials are available, fertilizer can be used to provide the nitrogen if desired. This could be applied again each time you add another 6 inches of high carbon material. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The mention of any commercial product in this web site does not imply its endorsement by the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service over other products not named, nor does the omission imply that they are not satisfactory.