A basic understanding of the composting process helps produce a high quality product while preventing many common problems. The microorganisms that do the work in composting have a few basic requirements that need to be met. Oxygen, water and temperature combine to create a good composting environment. Composting is an aerobic process, which means it occurs in the presence of oxygen. Oxygen is provided in two ways: (1) by turning the compost; and (2) by building the pile correctly. If a pile gets too little oxygen, it could possibly give off offensive odors. Microorganisms need water, too. Too wet, and anaerobic conditions result; too dry, and the decomposition process will slow way down. Bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms get their energy from carbon sources, such as leaves, brush, or wood chips. Nitrogen is required for growth, but to much nitrogen can generate ammonia and other odors, and can pollute runoff water. As the microorganisms are working away decomposing waste, they generate heat. Turning the pile when temperatures reach a certain point will prevent overheating, which can result in drastic population fluctuations and odors. Eventually, the microorganisms will use up most of the readily decomposable waste and the composting process will slow. Temperatures drop and the compost takes on a dark texture. At this point, the compost can be placed in large stockpiles to cure, and will continue to improve until it is ready for use.
The MOR compost cover keeps odor, heat, microorganisms and some moisture contained while releasing oxygen, bits of carbon monoxide and some moisture. This complex cover material allows the covered piles to be controlled by using a blow fan connected to a ventilated air hose snaking beneath the pile. The fan is necessary since the pile should never be cooler than 110º or heated more than 160º. If the pile falls below 110º the microorganisms needed to decompose the pile will never grow. If the pile's temperature climbs above 160º the microorganisms will not survive. The MOR compost cover allows airflow to be decreased if the pile is not hot enough or increased if the pile is getting to warm simply by adjusting the fan's output using a torque timer. A torque timer can be set for the fan to blow air throughout the pile every 10 minutes and then stay off for 10 minutes before turning on again (adjust the timer to the desired setting that works best for your pile). The size of the pile, the ingredients used, weather and life of the pile will dictate the settings best suited for your pile.