Slower, still alive
Microbial activity drops in cold heaps — that is normal. Continue adding kitchen scraps in balance with dry carbon; turn only if smell turns sour. Insulated bins or larger mass hold heat longer in South Island winters than small wire cylinders.
Winter compost habits
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Bury scraps in centre
Reduces rat interest and contains odour.
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Stockpile dry leaves
Every bucket of wet kitchen waste needs carbon partner.
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Do not dig finished into frozen ground
Spread when soil workable in spring — or mulch surface if crumb is mature.
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Plan spring screen
Sieve rough compost for seed beds when days lengthen.