Is Your Compost Struggling? 6 Signs It’s Time to Use a Compost Starter

Compost is nature’s way of recycling—but sometimes the process gets stuck. If your pile isn’t breaking down the way it should, the culprit is often a lack of microbial activity.

Here are six clear signs your compost needs a microbial boost—and how a compost starter can help.

It's Taking Forever to Break Down

If your pile looks the same week after week, the decomposition process is likely sluggish. Compost should shrink and darken over time. A compost starter introduces billions of beneficial microbes that kickstart and accelerate breakdown.

It Smells... Bad

Healthy compost smells earthy and mild. If yours gives off a sour, ammonia, or rotting scent, it’s probably too wet or out of balance. A compost starter helps restore the microbial community needed for clean, aerobic (oxygen-loving) decomposition.

It Feels Dry and Lifeless

Hot weather can dry out your pile—especially near the top. If it feels dusty or crumbly, microbial activity has likely stalled. Moisten the pile and add compost starter to wake things back up.

It’s Hot in the Middle, But Cold Outside

A thriving pile generates heat in the center. But if the outer layers stay cold, it means microbes aren’t evenly distributed. Turning your pile and adding compost starter helps spread microbial life throughout.

You're Seeing Flies, Gnats, or Rodents

Pests love an unbalanced pile—especially when food scraps aren’t breaking down fast enough. A compost starter boosts microbial activity and speeds up decomposition, reducing the attraction for unwanted visitors.

The Colour is Pale, Not Rich and Dark

Finished compost should be dark brown or black. If your pile stays light, it’s a sign that decomposition is incomplete. Compost starter recharges the pile and helps break down stubborn materials like stems, husks, and paper.

✅ Why Use a Compost Starter?

EarthSmart’s Compost Starter contains a specialized blend of:

• Beneficial bacteria and fungi
• Enzymes that break down organic matter
• Heat-tolerant microbes ideal for summer
• No synthetic additives—safe for organic gardens

It jumpstarts decomposition, balances moisture and nutrients, and creates rich, crumbly compost faster—even in summer heat.

🌞 Why July is the Perfect Time to Act

With long days and plenty of garden and kitchen scraps, summer is peak composting season. But heat can dry out your pile or stress your microbes.

That’s why July is the perfect time to give your compost a boost—and this month, we’re offering 10% off EarthSmart Compost Starter to help you do just that!

🛒 Ready to Rescue Your Compost?

Shop now and save 10% on Compost Starter all month long from July 1 to 31, 2025.
👉 Compost Starter

Please contact us at 1-866-444-7174 or email info@earth-smart-solutions.com if you have any questions on our products. We would love to hear from you!