The critical parameter for composting is the temperature of the compost pile.
We manufacture a waterproof digital compost thermometer which is supplied with a specially designed long reach compost temperature probe designed to reach right into the center of the compost pile to give accurate readings.
We also have a range of self-powered outdoor waterproof dataloggers, which can be left in situ recording the temperature of the compost pile and provide an alert when the pile should be turned via an flashing LED alarm light.
Composting organic matter from the garden isn't just a useful way of dealing with the grass and hedge cuttings! Composting destroys thermosensitive pathogens, weed seeds and fly larvae too. However, if the temperature in your compost heap gets too hot, the micro-organisms which are breaking down your compost begin to die off, thus stopping the whole beneficial process.
Compost heat is a by-product of the microbial breakdown of organic mater. Decomposition occurs most rapidly during the thermophicic stage of composting at temperatures between +40 and +60C. To stop the temperature going above +60C, regular turning or aerating the pile is required.
Compost thermometers are available and are usually made using a high grade stainless steel probe at least 1m long in order to penetrate the heap and accurately measure the temperature within the center.
