We sometimes get asked if you have to turn the contents of your compost bin regularly? I think there is is some truth to this but its not actually neccessary.
As with the conventional wisdom regarding layering, this technique has its roots in the large compost piles traditionally associated with keen gardeners with huge open compost heaps or commercial composting companies. It involves literally turning the whole heap over in order to open air spaces in the material and to reduce compaction. This can be quite discouraging to people who either do not have the physical capability to lift large volumes of material, or do not wish to spend a lot of time composting.
Air is essential for the survival of the microbes that degrade organic waste and help to turn it into compost. Although turning the heap is the best method to ensure there is sufficient air, there are a number of easier methods. The first is to mix the material around in the bin using a garden fork or compost aerator. The second is to use a broom handle to poke holes in the material creating air channels. However, easier still is to ensure there is a good mix of materials in the bin that will help to create air pockets amongst the material. Materials that are particularly good for this purpose are those that provide structure in a heap, such as corrugated cardboard, egg boxes, the cardboard centres of loo rolls or kitchen rolls, scrunched-up paper, or a jumble of twigs and small branches.
So you dont have to turn your compost heap, if you're smart, or lazy you can built your pile in a way which keeps it structured and save yourself a job in the garden.
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