GardenBanter.co.uk - View Single Post

Phisherman[_3_] · 29-08-2008, 05:41 PM posted to rec.gardens

On Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:57:31 -0700 (PDT), wrote:

Howdy!
We've got a heap of fresh mulch (trees were chopped three days ago)
The trees were mainly australian native bushy trees - no idea about
what they are called. The heap is a about 9 cubic meters and ~4-5 feet
high. This morning noticed a white steam rising, and sure enough, it's
warm inside. I dug about 3 feet into it and it's pleasant warm. I
understand why it's warm, what I'm worried about, is it dangerous at
all/ From what I see on the web, there were cases of much taller piles
of mulch selfigniting. It's midspring here in australia, temperatures
are 7-17'C, and even some chance of rain soon. How long it takes for
the mulch to cool down?
Many thanks
kdv09

The heat indicates that the mulch is composting and decomposing. The
heap is the right size for composting. It will probably remain hot
for a few months and decrease in size, unless it dries out.