Composting Principles
§Efficient composting requires
§A balanced source of energy and nutrients Typically with a C:N ratio between 20:1and 40:1
§Sufficient moisture
Typically between 40% and 60%
§Sufficient oxygen
§ Typically 5% or greater
§A pH range between 6 and 8
§
§
Efficient composting requires that the initial compost mix have:
•  A balanced source of energy (carbon) and nutrients (primarily
   nitrogen), typically with a C:N ratio of 20:1 to 40:1
•  Sufficient moisture, typically 40 to 60 percent
•  Sufficient oxygen for an aerobic environment, typically 5 percent or
    greater
•  A pH in the range of 6 to 8

These compost mix characteristics must be maintained throughout the composting process as well.