10 best compost starters

Compost starters, also known as compost accelerators or compost activators, are products designed to speed up the decomposition process in compost piles or bins. They contain a mixture of microorganisms, enzymes, and sometimes additional organic matter to promote the breakdown of organic materials into nutrient-rich compost. Here's what you need to know about compost starters:

  1. Purpose: Compost starters are used to enhance the microbial activity in compost piles or bins. They introduce beneficial bacteria, fungi, and enzymes that break down organic matter more efficiently, leading to faster decomposition and the creation of high-quality compost.

  2. Ingredients: Compost starters typically include a blend of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi, often derived from sources like aged compost, manure, or decomposed organic materials. Some products also contain organic materials like molasses or kelp meal to provide additional nutrients for the microorganisms.

  3. Application: To use a compost starter, you can simply sprinkle it onto the layers of organic material in your compost pile or mix it thoroughly. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you're using, as application rates and methods may vary.

  4. Benefits: Using a compost starter can offer several benefits:

    • Accelerated decomposition: The added microorganisms and enzymes help break down organic matter faster, reducing the time it takes to produce usable compost.
    • Improved compost quality: Compost starters can enhance the nutrient content and microbial diversity in the finished compost, resulting in a more fertile soil amendment.
    • Odor control: They can help control unpleasant odors in the compost pile by promoting efficient decomposition.
  5. Types: Compost starters come in various forms, including powders, granules, liquids, and pre-made compost starter mixes.The choice of type depends on personal preference and the specific needs of your composting setup.

  6. Considerations: While compost starters can be beneficial, they are not always necessary. Many compost piles naturally contain the microorganisms needed for decomposition. However, if you want to speed up the composting process or improve the quality of your compost, a starter can be a helpful addition.

  7. Environmental Impact: When choosing a compost starter, consider environmentally friendly options. Some organic and biodegradable starters are available, which can align with sustainable gardening practices.

In summary, compost starters are products designed to enhance the composting process by introducing beneficial microorganisms and enzymes. They can be a useful tool for those looking to accelerate decomposition and create nutrient-rich compost for their garden or landscaping needs. However, they are optional, and many compost piles can thrive without them, provided they have the right conditions for microbial activity.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best compost starters on the market
  

Jobe's Organics Compost Starter, 4 lb

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Jobes Organics Granular Compost Starter (4-4-2) is specially formulated to promote fast composting. The first fast-acting organic fertilizer for results you can really see. Jobes Organics Granular Fertilizers with Jobe's Biozome is a new and unique family of 100% organic fertilizer formulas. The secret is in Jobe's Biozome, a consortium of three microorganisms - bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi plus a unique species of Archaea - an extremely aggressive microorganism that quickly breaks down even complex materials and minerals into basic nutrients and trace elements that plants can readily absorb. With Jobes Organics you will see results faster. Size: 4 lbs Analysis: 4-4-2 Promotes fast composting Increases microbial activity Helps break down organic matter Contains 100% organic compost nutrients Made in the USA. Application Rate: Liberally sprinkle 2 cups of Jobe's Organics Compost Starter per cubic yard of organic waste. Turn compost and add water to moisten. DO NOT SOAK. You should begin to see results in 2-3 weeks.

  • Organic compost starter with Biozome; Speeds up the composting process; Ideal for compost piles
  • OMRI listed for organic gardening by USDA; Certified organic means no synthetic chemicals
  • Jobe’s Biozome.the proprietary microorganism archaea that aggressively breaks down organic material for faster results
  • Jobe’s Biozome improves soil conditions, helps resist disease, insects, and drought during the growing season
  • Easy pour bag; Guaranteed fertilizer analysis: (4-4-2) 4 pound bag; Apply every 4 to 6 weeks

User questions & answers

Question: Will it kill the worms in my compost
Answer: It's 3 ft square at the bottom and has four lift doors which are about 12 inches. It seems to be a good size. I'm just beginning to compost, so I don't know if that will be sufficient when the compost is ready to harvest -- but it appears to be good. The only thing I wish it had was an attached top to make the disposal of scraps and yard waste in there a bit easier.
Question: Does this work in cold weather? Have recently purchased but debating whether to apply it to large leave piles this cold fall or wait until spring
Answer: I just lift the whole bin off the pile. It’s tapered and it pulls off easily. Then I use a pitchfork to put the contents back in the bin. It takes 5 to 10 minutes.
Question: Does this have any animal maure in it
Answer: Yes, it is open bottomed. Just place over the soil so worm can get in. We love these bins!
Question: Does it really break down your compost faster/better (I live in a cool climate)? How much do you use
Answer: I thought the tabs on the bottom were too short to securely anchor it, so instead of placing rocks on top, I use 6-inch long garden pins and they work perfectly. I was able to simply press them into the sodded ground hooking them over the bin's ledge under the four doors. I recommend anyone who buys this composter to buy a bag of garden pins at -- https://www.amazon.com/GardenMate-100-Pack-ANTI-RUST-Heavy-Duty-Galvanized/dp/B00PQL7JJ8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478179098&sr=8-1&keywords=garden+pins+rust+proof --If this link isn't clickable, just copy and paste it into your browser's address line.

Product features

OMRI Listed for Organic Use

*OMRI Listed, Valid from:Issue date: 17-jul-2017.

Espoma Compost Starter, Natural & Organic Composting Aid, 4 lb, Pack of 1

Espoma

Based on 418 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Espoma Organic Traditions Compost Starter- 4 lb Bag BE4

From the Manufacturer

Sprinkle enough Bio-Excelerator to completely cover your compost pile (approximately 1 cup per 16 square feet of compost). Each time you add another layer of organic material, sprinkle Bio-Excelerator completely over your last layer. If you completely moisten (not soak) the added layer after your application of Bio-Excelerator and turn the pile regularly (preferably once a week), you can reduce the time required for humus production to 2 to 3 months minimum.

  • Espoma Compost Starter is a unique, 100% bio-organic mix. It is the ideal choice to help make rich, fertile compost -- nature's original soil conditioner
  • Espoma Organic Compost Starter is formulated to accelerate the process of home composting materials including manure, grass, leaves and food waste
  • Compost Starter contains billions of microbes specially cultured for fast, healthy composting. These are combined with the proper energy sources and pH balancers to assure composting success
  • Includes heat active varieties, used to speed the decomposition of difficult materials

User questions & answers

Question: Hi- folks have mentioned high temps and smoke when using this compost stater. Is there any chance of starting a fire? Thank you
Answer: No it does not, but it is a good quality comb! Highly recommend .
Question: Can this starter be used in a Biolet toilet
Answer: Wrong: Not Plastic, or anything poly. See here: Kent combs are also made from dense and consistently pliable but stiff cellulose acetate, not polystyrene plastic. This material has an extremely glossy outer hand finish that also glides over hair more easily and without snags. The hand made, saw cut teeth on a Kent comb glide through your hair without binding.
Question: My compost is just not heating up, despite daily turning and the addition of leaves and shredded paper. Can this product be used with worm composting
Answer: They are pointing but rounded at the tip little
Question: what are the ingredients
Answer: Very

Convino: A Compost Starter and Accelerator Which Helps to Reduce Kitchen Waste Odor

Product description

Convino is a compost starter/accelerator made up of a natural formula of microorganisms that transforms everyday household organic waste into healthy, nutrient-rich soil. Gently tear the compostable packet, sprinkle Convino in your compost bin and let the microorganisms do all the work for you.

  • Helps to eliminate odors during composting process
  • Starts and Accelerates the home composting process for your food and garden waste
  • Contains billions of beneficial bacteria and fungi to enhance and improve composting
  • Enhances plant growth, nutrient availability and uptake
  • People and pet safe

Product features

Packaging Detail

The Registration Number: 7P0588

Valid Until: 2023-08-31

Composition: 100% GN600F

FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter, 37 gallon, Black

FCMP Outdoor

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Yimby Tumbler Composter, Color Black

  • Tumbling composter – avoid digging and mixing your compost pile by hand. The tumbling design makes mixing easy and efficient. Just close the door and turn it 5-6 times every 2-3 days. In hot sunny conditions and with a proper balance of ingredients the compost can finish in as little as 2 weeks.
  • Easy to use – fantastic for beginners! The large openings and removable door make it easy to add Scraps/clippings and remove finished compost. Deep Fins on the body provide great ergonomic handholds.
  • Two composter chambers are better than one – two separate sides allow the first side to finish while leaving the second side Available to add fresh Scraps/clippings. Continuously swapping sides after finishing will create an uninterrupted flow of rich, healthy compost. Total capacity 37 gallons (5 cu Ft)
  • Excellent aeration – all our composter models feature aeration holes as well as deep Fins to break up clumps inside the chamber and mix lots of oxygen into the compost. Tumbling composters allow far greater aeration than standard models.
  • Durable construction – BPA free, UV inhibited, 100% post-consumer recycled polypropylene is contact safe and will not degrade under direct sunlight. The galvanized steel frame is corrosion resistant.

User questions & answers

Question: what is the best mixture of scraps to put in the composter to start the first batch in a brand new yimby tumbler composter
Answer: Yes it does. It does not come with a mat.
Question: Any tips for winter usage, once temperatures cause the compost to freeze
Answer: Yes, if you print a cake on a shirt and make decorations for it then you could use it for cake decorating purposes
Question: do you have to put it together and is it difficult we are not good at assembly
Answer: I use a teflon sheet and no you don't have to press too hard. I used to use my iron and this thing is AAAAAmazing!!! Time and heat control... no more guessing or over heating.
Question: Is it bear proof
Answer: Your iron may be greatly superior to mine...But the advantages that this heat press has over my iron are these: 1) I'm able set the exact temperature I need. (I didn't realize what a difference this would make!) 2) The heat press is HEAVY. I want a lightweight iron for ironing clothes, but want pressure (which weight provides) for heat transfer designs. 3) This heat press has a timer. I've been amazed how much better my work turns out when I'm a little more careful about the timing. These are the three major advantages I've found in using a heat press over my iron. To be truthful, any heat press probably delivers these. But the smaller, more compact size (even with the largest, the 12 x 10--which I purchased), and hence, easier storage when not in use...is what tipped the scales for me when choosing the Cricut over the other brands of heat presses. Hope this helps your decision-making!

Product features

Tumbling Design

Avoid digging and mixing your compost pile by hand. The tumbling design makes mixing easy and efficient. Just close the door and turn it 5-6 times every 2-3 days. In hot sunny conditions and with a proper balance of ingredients the compost can finish in as little as 2 weeks.

Two Composting Chambers

Two separate sides allow the first side to finish cooking while leaving the second side available to add fresh scraps/clippings. Continuously swapping sides after finishing will create an uninterrupted flow of rich, healthy compost.

Durable Construction

The composter body is constructed from polypropylene. It is contact safe and will not degrade under direct sunlight. The galvanized steel frame is corrosion resistant.

Excellent Aeration

The composter features adjustable air vents as well as deep fins to break up clumps inside the chamber and mix lots of oxygen into the compost. Tumbling composters allow far greater aeration than standard models.

Safer 3050-6 Ringer Plus-Compost Starter Kit Brand, 2 lb, White

Safer Brand

Based on 283 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Highlights: size: 2 lbs All purposeconverts 500-750 lb of yd debris into compostcontains microorganisms that begin the compost cycletargets lawn clippings, brown leaves, wood chips & more Helps to create gardening compost fertilizer specially formulated to compost lawn clippings, brown leaves, wood chips, pine needles, twigs, household organic waste, etc quickly reduces waste into rich, moist humus in 60 to 90 days Easy to use--just add to your compost pile to start

  • Specially formulated pellets used to compost a variety of materials
  • Quickly reduces waste into rich, moist humus in 60 to 90 days
  • Blends microbes and nutrients to kickstart the compost process
  • Use with lawn clippings, brown leaves, wood chips, pine cones, twigs
  • Each 2 lb bag can convert up to 750 lb of yard debris into compost

User questions & answers

Question: Manufacturer: does your product contain ANY animal products or by-products
Answer: The package just says that it contains natural microorganisms that break down the compost.
Question: can you put the red worms directly into your planters or larger pots
Answer: This material is in a powder type form. It breaks down the material in you composter. It's not worms. Kathy
Question: Does this work in winter
Answer: Microbes become inactive below 40 degrees F, so in many areas this product will not be effective during winter.
Question: What exactly are the ingredients in this products
Answer: This product contains plant nutrients plus a targeted microbial blend.

Biomaster Compost-It Compost Accelerator/Starter 100g Spout Pack for All Composting Systems, (100% Natural Concentrate)

Based on 137 reviews Check latest price
  • Starter and accelerator to create nutrient-rich compost in just 4 weeks
  • Suitable for all composting systems and worm farms
  • Over 60 different active ingredients, fast, effective and easy to use
  • Reduces unpleasant and unhealthy odors, perfect for kitchen scrap bins
  • Chemical and poison free - safe and natural activator, booster and enhancer

User questions & answers

Question: will this product disolve the paper and waste in my outhouse if i put it in and leave it over the winter
Answer: Yes, Compost-It has over 60 different strains of aerobic and anaerobic as well as facultative microorganisms which will digest many different types and forms of waste. Keep in mind though, that septic systems do not like to be left for too long as the flow of material from septic to drain field is a natural part of the dynamic process. You may also consider the range of 'Septic Care' products Biomaster have to offer which may be more suitable to your situation and have specially selected waste and paper-eating bacteria and enzymes.
Question: How much of this do I need for an 18 gallon tumbler
Answer: Thanks for the question. The packet is sufficient for about 27 gallons, so if your tumbler was completely full it would equate to about two-thirds of the pack. Of course, if the tumbler is only filled half way it will be less.
Question: The question does dried leaves ok for composting
Answer: Hi there - thanks for your question. Yes dried leaves are fine, just make sure you mix them with other garden waste in order not to have a big lump of them together and also that the composting material is damp as warmth and moisture activate the break-down process. If the leaves are very large and thick, it is a good idea to chop them up smaller - running a lawn mower over them before adding to your compost does a great job!
Question: If you sprinkle on the kitchen scrap bin when the bin is half full, do you water it in a little or just leave it on top dry
Answer: Thanks for the question. Composting should always be kept damp (like a wrung out towel) not wet. This keeps the active ingredients working to break down the material in the bin or in the heap. Clever tip - if you are not ready to use the composted material, add it to the heap or bin you already have and it will keep populating that material to assist faster composting.

Product features

Give Your Composting A Speed Boost With Compost-It Compost Accelerator

Compost-It contains billions of colony-forming units of nature’s wonder workers. This diverse array of naturally occurring enzymes were selected for their ability to breakdown (biodegrade) leaves, grass, garden waste and kitchen food scraps into their basic components – turning your waste into nutrient rich compost, which in turn is used to feed your plants, improve your soil and save water.

For All Composting Systems

The spout pack has been designed to be easy to use and is perfect for sprinkling into your kitchen waste bin. This material can then be added to your compost heap when the bin fills up. The great thing is that your waste has already been activated before you add it to the heap. Compost-It can also be used in old piles, drums and tumblers to get them going again, or as a compost starter to kickstart and accelerate the composting process.

FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter, 37 Gallon, Black & Espoma Organic Traditions Compost Starter- 4 lb Bag BE4

FCMP Outdoor

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter, 37 gallon, Black

Yimby Tumbler Composter, Color Black



Espoma Organic Traditions Compost Starter- 4 lb Bag BE4

Sprinkle enough Bio-Excelerator to completely cover your compost pile (approximately 1 cup per 16 square feet of compost). Each time you add another layer of organic material, sprinkle Bio-Excelerator completely over your last layer. If you completely moisten (not soak) the added layer after your application of Bio-Excelerator and turn the pile regularly (preferably once a week), you can reduce the time required for humus production to 2 to 3 months minimum.

Espoma Organic Traditions Compost Starter- 4 lb Bag BE4

  • Product 1: The original 8 sided dual chamber tumbling composter. Beware imitations.
  • Product 1: Tumbling composter – avoid digging and mixing your compost pile by hand. The tumbling design makes mixing easy and efficient. Just close the door and turn it 5-6 times every 2-3 days. In hot sunny conditions and with a proper balance of ingredients the compost can finish in as little as 2 weeks.
  • Product 1: Easy to use – fantastic for beginners! The large openings and removable door make it easy to add Scraps/clippings and remove finished compost. Deep Fins on the body provide great ergonomic handholds.
  • Product 1: Two composter chambers are better than one – two separate sides allow the first side to finish while leaving the second side Available to add fresh Scraps/clippings. Continuously swapping sides after finishing will create an uninterrupted flow of rich, healthy compost. Total capacity 37 gallons (5 cu Ft)
  • Product 2: Espoma organic Traditions compost starter
  • Product 2: Manufactured in United States
  • Product 2: Brand: Espoma
  • Product 2: Material: Bio-Organic Microbes

User questions & answers

Question: what is the best mixture of scraps to put in the composter to start the first batch in a brand new yimby tumbler composter
Answer: It would depend on what type of adjustable bed frame you have, it needs a fixed wood frame to attach to.
Question: Any tips for winter usage, once temperatures cause the compost to freeze
Answer: Actually what comes along is a pretty poor excuse for hardware. There are these quarter turn things that are supposed to hold it together but one broke during installation and the others came loose just sitting there.
Question: do you have to put it together and is it difficult we are not good at assembly
Answer: Hello, The dimesons you requested are below. Floor to top: 44" Floor to base of headboard: 23.5" Thanks, Matt
Question: Is it bear proof
Answer: No, this is designed for a standard king size mattress.

Jobe's Organics Compost Starter Granules Organic Plant Food 4 lb.

Jobe's Organics

Based on 26 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Jobe's Organics Compost Starter Granules Organic Plant Food 4 lb.

  • Size: 4 lbs
  • Analysis: 4-4-2
  • Promotes fast composting
  • Increases microbial activity
  • Helps break down organic matter

User questions & answers

Question: What's the difference between "jobe's organics compost starter" and "jobe's organics 09926 fast acting fertilizer compost starter
Answer: Hmmm.....well I didn't buy a nightstand. But I did buy this headboard pictured. For the price, it's worked out great! I've been pleased.

Espoma CS4 4 Lb Organic Compost Starter

Espoma

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Espoma CS4 4 Lb Organic Compost Starter

  • Quantity of bags : Espoma CS4 4 lb Organic Compost Maker
  • 100% Bio-Organic Mix
  • Contains Microbes Cultured For Fast, Healthy Composting
  • Made in USA

SCD Probiotics All Seasons Bokashi - Compost Starter & Microbial Inoculant - Dry Bokashi Bran for Kitchen Compost Bin - Compost Food & Pet Waste Quickly & Easily with Low Odor - 2.2 lbs

Based on 670 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Bokashi composting starter is a dry bran fermented with beneficial microbes. When mixed in a Bokashi bin with food waste of all kinds - even meat, small bones, dairy, and oils - it pickles them, enabling you to kickstart composting indoors with ease. No need to worry about turning or precisely balancing greens, browns, or moisture levels. One your Bokashi bucket is full, simply transfer to your outdoor compost bin, garden soil, or curbside pick-up to complete the composting process.



Use Bokashi in your outdoor compost bin and reduce rodent and pest attraction. You can even use it to reduce odors in kitty litter, diaper pails, trash cans, composting toilets, and more.

Not only does Bokashi speed up the composting process fermenting your food waste indoors, in a bokashi bucket, but it also creates less CO2 and retains more food waste nutrients - which means higher-quality compost for your plants.

High levels of antioxidants, minerals, and beneficial microbes improve the soil, increase organic fertilizers’ effectiveness, help eliminate soil-borne pathogens and pests and encourage better seed germination, bigger plants, more flowering, fruiting, and ripening.

Instructions: Simply add food waste to a kitchen compost bin or your Bokashi composter after each meal and sprinkle with a layer of Bokashi.

  • MAKES COMPOSTING CONVENIENT, QUICK, AND EASY - Bokashi composting is easy to do in your kitchen, reduces trash, and helps your garden. Bokashi composting starter is a dry bran fermented with beneficial microbes. When mixed in a Bokashi bin with food waste of all kinds - even meat, small bones, dairy, and oils - it pickles them, enabling you to compost indoors with ease. No need to worry about turning or precisely balancing greens, browns, or moisture levels.
  • REDUCES COMPOST & HOUSEHOLD ODORS - Because Bokashi composting is a low oxygen fermentation process, you can compost without stinky putrefaction or flies. Use it in your outdoor compost bin and reduce rodent and pest attraction. You can even use it on kitty litter, composting toilets, and more.
  • MORE NUTRITIOUS COMPOST - Not only does Bokashi speed up the composting process and enable you to compost indoors, in a bokashi bucket, but it also creates less CO2 and retains more food waste nutrients - which means higher-quality compost for your plants.
  • NOURISH YOUR SOIL AND PLANTS - Gardeners of all kinds add Bokashi powder directly to potted and outdoor soil. Its high levels of antioxidants, minerals, and beneficial microbes improve the soil, increase organic fertilizers’ effectiveness, help eliminate soil-borne pathogens and pests and encourage better seed germination, bigger plants, more flowering, fruiting, and ripening.
  • PREMIUM QUALITY, SIMPLE TO USE - SCD Probiotics All Seasons Bokashi is a premium, double-fermented dried bran bokashi packaged in a stand-up resealable bag that makes it easy to store and use. Simply add food waste to a kitchen compost bin or your Bokashi composter after each meal and sprinkle with a layer of Bokashi.

User questions & answers

Question: What is a shelf life of this product
Answer: I have bought it in bulk and kept over a year and it still seems to work. Keep it dry.
Question: Anyone have a homemade recipe for this mix
Answer: I have, I tried several times slightly tweaking the process in an attempt to be successful. It was challenging, stinky and I failed every time. I've no idea why! I'm thinking it would be far easier to use this as a starter and grow more by feeding this. That's my plan. I do the same with my EM. I purchased a bottle and then feed the microbes. It's expensive to keep purchasing! To answer your situation tho, Google bokashi recipe and follow the instructions precisely. Good luck! I hope you succeed! Failure is super smelly lol.
Question: Is this product safe for earthworms? Have any of you used it in a composting worm bin
Answer: Bokashi is a wonderful product. I use it in a kitchen waste composting bin. I have never used it in a composting worm bin. The Bokashi website has a lot of information regarding all sorts of composting techniques. Because worms love kitchen waste, I would imagine that Bokashi is safe for them. I don't think you will be disappointed.
Question: How many batches does a 2.2 lb bag compost
Answer: Thank you for your message. Using a healthy handful of bokashi for every layer of food scraps that you put into the bucket (up to 3"), a 1 gallon bag can be used to compost one to two buckets of food scraps. The amount of bokashi required varies from person to person and bucket to bucket due to the moisture content of your food scraps, ambient temperature and humidity, and food type. Remember if you are composting meat, bones or dairy extra bokashi may be necessary; better too much than too little to ensure complete fermentation and good smelling compost. It may take a little experimentation to find the perfect amount of bokashi to use with your kitchen composter. If your bucket starts to putrify (smell bad) or grow green mold (white mold is beneficial), then it’s time to toss that bucket out and use more bokashi in the next one. Good luck and thanks for posting this question! Best, SCD Probiotics

Product features

Reduce Odors and Speed Up Decomposition

All Seasons Bokashi is an all-natural compost starter that converts food waste and similar organic matter into a soil amendment, adding nutrients to the soil and improving soil texture.

In a kitchen compost bucket, crock or pail, sprinkle All Seasons Bokashi directly on top of kitchen food waste and close the lid. It is very important to cover the entire surface of food waste with All Seasons Bokashi. When added, All Seasons Bokashi will prepare food waste to become high quality compost. Repeat the process, until the bucket is full. The sweet, pungent aroma of the treated food waste is a good sign that the composting process has begun.

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