What is the best ratio of wet and dry ingredients?
The best ratio of wet (greens) and dry (browns) ingredients are just as critical as your composts moisture and air content. Greens are generally high in nitrogen and provide moisture and protein for microorganisms in your compost. Browns are higher in carbon and provide a good energy source for microorganisms as well as good aeration of the compost. It is a good idea to moisten browns before putting them in the compost. Cornell University’s composting web site suggests a Carbon/Nitrogen ratio of 30/1 (by weight) when initially starting a compost pile. Finished compost is usually close to the C/N ratio of 10/1.
