Compost A compost pile is built by layering organic materials. Compost piles should be 3 to 4 feet wide and 3 to 4 feet high. This volume allows the pile to heat as composting occurs. Do not add pet manure, meat scraps, fat, bones, diseased plants, or noxious weeds to the compost pile. Keys to Composting Moisture.
Proper moisture is important to keep microorganisms active.
Avoid over-watering the pile, as this excludes oxygen. The microorganisms need oxygen to break down the organic debris. Regular turning of the compost pile insures aeration, speeding the composting. Bacteria found in soil and compost are the primary microorganisms that break down organic matter. The bacteria in compost starter products increase these microorganisms, speeding the compost process.