A list follows of some materials commonly used in making compost. If piled without bulking agent, these materials usually are too wet and dense to allow much air into the compost pile. Bulking agents are dry, porous materials that help aerate the compost pile. They are too low in moisture and nutrients to decay quickly on their own. Balanced raw materials.
Some raw materials contain a balance of energy and bulking agent properties.
These materials will compost readily without being blended with other ingredients. Examples include horse manure mixed with bedding, spoiled alfalfa hay, and deciduous leaves. These materials are handy for ensuring the success of hot compost piles. Mixing bulking agents with energy sources provides the right balance of moisture, air and nutrients for rapid composting. Grinding, cutting, smashing, or chopping raw materials reduces particle size.