how do you check temps in a compost bin? do i really need an accurate temp or can i just play it by "nose". i mean if it smells off- it's not cooking and i need to adjust it right? just curious after i read the previous post......

I never saw the need to know that actual temps. There is no mistaking when its cooking. You can feel the heat coming off of it.

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John - Zone 6

They do make compost thermometers. Check any gardening catalog. It should run you about $14. Measuring the actual temp gives you an idea when the pile is done cooking. I posted a link to a compost journal that I did a couple of years ago, and the core temp drops gradually over time. One might think that they're doing something wrong, but it's just an indication that the compost is almost ready for use. Of course, it doesn't hurt to let it age for a while, but if you're hot composting, then you want the compost in 2-4 weeks.

Don't stick your hand directly into the middle of a hot compost pile. The temps can reach 150 degrees F the first week. You can easily get a burn that way.

Otherwise you can use the obvious: put your hand over a recently turned pile, and you feel the heat. Steam will rise off of the pile as you turn it. You can use an indirect method too: after you have turned your pile, carefully touch the metal part of whatever you used to turn the pile to see how hot it is. Again, be cautious of burns using this method.

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Composting is more than good for your garden. It's a way of life.