Should I let my compost mature before use?

It's always worth letting your compost mature. The simple answer is that compost gets better with time.

An expanded answer can be found in hot heap composting, the classic method for turning organic waste consistently into quality compost.

The classic hot composting method

The method begins with a large pile of layered (carbon and nitrogen) wastes. The temperature in the pile rises to a hot 60°C (140°F), and is maintained with regular turning and watering. The wastes turn into fresh compost after one month.

The fresh compost is then left untouched for the next two months, which means it takes three months to convert the waste pile into mature compost. This method shows clearly that compost is ready for use only after the pile has matured.

Using traditional compost bins

Composting a small pile of waste in a traditional bin is slow because it usually occurs at whatever the temperature is that day. The required regular mixing jumbles the wastes, and after repeated additions to the bin, it becomes difficult to determine when every bit of waste has converted into fresh compost.

Each new addition extends the overall composting time. If the same bin is used to make and mature compost, then you need to make a new batch of compost in a second bin.

Using Bioverter

Bioverter is designed to solve the limitations of standard compost bins. It eliminates the need to mix, and takes every waste input through the compost stages in orderly sequence to shorten the composting time. Feed your waste regularly at the top and remove fresh compost in a pull-out collector at your convenience.

You may want to use the immature fresh compost straight away in your garden, but take care not to harm your plants.

The better and safer alternative is to let fresh compost rest in a sheltered spot, giving it time to mature into its crumbly soil-like form with enhanced benefits for your garden.