Mike Lyle writes

K wrote:
Mike Lyle writes



If the OP wants quick results, I think compost in an old coal bunker
will probably need to be turned more often than in a heap to keep it
aerated. I've never been fussy, but I'm sure quickly-made hot compost
is much better than slow and cool.

Better in what way? Texture? Nutrient level?

I was thinking of nutrients. The kind of couldn't-care-less heap I've
usually made gets an awful lot of rain passing through, which must take
away much of the soluble stuff; but it's a fine soil conditioner.

Yes, I don't think my compost is particularly rich in nutrients - I
don't use it in pots for that reason - but it's improved the soil no
end. I was planting a blackberry today, and I dug down about i8 inches
of crumbly black soil, not a sign of the yellowish clay that I would
expect to hit about a foot down.
--
Kay