How to Cover Compost
Question
October 15, 2024
Where can you purchase a “breathable” compost cover? Is a non-porous cover aka a tarp for winter months?
Answer(s)
Answer by JZ: Other master composter colleagues may also answer your question. Here are my thoughts. A search revealed this manufacturer: ComposTex Covers - Compost Fleece
There may be others too, but I am not familiar with them. For my large piles I use a tarp which has a reflective side and a dark color side. Reflective side is upward in the summer, then the dark side is up in the winter. For me this is a loose fitting drape cover which does allow for air flow, but also decreases upward evaporation of moisture which is useful here in the high desert. I put some rocks around the edge so that the wind does not lift the tarp away. Tarps often degrade in our desert sun, so that they have to be replaced at regular intervals. For my tower bins I cut/repurpose a piece of plastic which covers the top of pile Inside the bin. Another option might be a 6” layer of wheat straw spread out on top of the pile. Let us know if this is helpful info..