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Compost Ratio Calculator – Online Brown/Green Balance Tool

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Compost Ratio Calculator

Find the perfect brown-to-green balance for your compost pile. Get real-time C:N ratio and personalized adjustment tips.

Weight Unit:
Current Mixture
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Enter materials
Adjustment Advice

Add materials and see suggestions here.

Frequently Asked Questions

The C:N ratio represents the relative amount of carbon to nitrogen in organic materials. Microbes need carbon for energy and nitrogen for protein synthesis. A balanced ratio (25–30:1) speeds up decomposition and prevents odors.

Browns are carbon-rich materials like dry leaves, straw, wood chips, and cardboard (C:N > 30). Greens are nitrogen-rich materials such as grass clippings, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and fresh manure (C:N < 30).

Foul odors often indicate too much nitrogen (low C:N ratio). This leads to anaerobic conditions and ammonia release. Add browns like dry leaves or shredded paper and turn the pile to improve aeration.

A compost pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Too much carbon (browns) can make it dry and slow; add water and greens. Excessive moisture often comes from too many greens—mix in absorbent browns and turn.

It uses typical C:N values and material carbon/nitrogen percentages based on composting science. Actual values vary with moisture and composition. The goal is to give a practical starting point—always adjust by observing your pile's temperature and smell.

Worms prefer a similar C:N range but are more sensitive to acidity and moisture. The calculator can help you balance carbon/nitrogen inputs, but always follow worm‑specific feeding guidelines.
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