Compost thermometers are used to read the temperature in the center of your compost pile, so that you'll know whether or not your compost is decaying properly. Why is this important? If your compost isn't the right temperature, the decomposition process will slow down significantly, and your pile will take a long time to become rich, useful compost. Smells could also arise. The warmer your compost is, the more effectively and quickly it will produce finish compost, getting those old scraps out of the way.
Look for a compost thermometer that's long enough to reach the center of your pile. Most compost heaps have centers that are around twenty inches down. The thermometer must also be able to read at least a hundred fifty degrees, since a good decomposition temperature is between a hundred twenty and a hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. This is the best temperature for allowing hypothermophilic microorganisms to not only survive, but multiply to the limits of their oxygen supply. Combine the ideal temperature with a well aerated pile, and you'll be able to produce quality compost in a very short period of time.
Remember that a hot compost pile is important, but it shouldn't get too hot. Over a certain temperature, the microbes that you want to encourage begin to die off. Using a compost thermometer will allow you to choose a temperature that's optimal for encouraging these microorganisms while being high enough to kill off harmful pathogens. Of course, you should avoid including animal products in your compost pile to keep the population of undesirable microorganisms down.
For the cost (twenty to thirty dollars) a compost thermometer is a great benefit. You can easily figure out how hot a compost pile is and break down materials faster than ever before. A hermetically sealed thermometer is the best choice, since it'll be able to stay in the pile overnight without fear of fogging. If you've been measuring your compost temperature by putting your hand in the pile, you'll be pleased at how easy it is to get an accurate reading using one of these great products. Look for an easy to read dial, and durable components. If you have a pile that might damage the thermometer, or you'd like to leave it in the compost heap for a longer period of time, consider getting a probe guard to go along with your purchase. This item will keep your thermometer safe, and gives you a handle to help you insert the probe into the pile.
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