Things found in my compost bin after 3 years

[WestMichRad]

3. Not adding water (or Green organic matter)...

… will really slow decomposition.

Interesting results, thanks for the post! In addition to the items you noted that don’t break down, pits (like peach pits), walnut shells and woody materials don’t decompose very fast. Egg shells are also very slow to break down unless we crunch them into small pieces first.

I have a big compost heap that I use for lawn and garden waste, food waste (no rat problem here), and leaves. Gave up trying to fence it long ago… critters are gonna visit and snack, so be it. (Mostly raccoons, deer, an occasional possum or stray dog). I never turn it over, except… In spring when I want compost to amend the garden soil, I move the non-composted material to one side and shovel out the good compost. Typically get at least a dozen wheelbarrow loads of good rich compost each year.

We’ve been doing this for 35 years here and have really terrific garden soil! Excellent for growing tomatoes (among others), and since one certain NC Tomatoman has provided many a great recommendation for tasty varieties, I’m blessed with a delicious avalanche of yummies (coming soon)!