No, this bag along with some black dirt and sand sat behind the rear garage for at least 2 seasons. When I opened it it was dry, hard and full of roots so it is aged. I broke it up and added some to the compost but tore the roots (whatever they are) out. The rest of the bag sat partly open in the wheelbarrow while it rained gently for a day and 1/2, so I have some nice tea in there now. Today the sun was out and I uncovered the compost to stir it up and it was really pretty hot. Not using it for veggies (I'm primarily a perennial gardener) I just don't want to add components that might throw off the benefits. What do you tihink?
BTW, yes Angie, I have lots of leaves but mostly oak which don't break down well so instead, I add dried plant parts but most of my compost is egg shells, coffee grounds, veggie and fruit peelings and those kind of cast offs because I am vegetarian. I also dry plant material from the yard (that has no invasive seeds) and cut it up along with brown corrigated.
I do have lots of evergreens (pine and arborvite) and have been cutting up and adding some but am concerned about throwing the pH in the wrong direction. My soil tends to be neutral to alkiline though in my planting beds because when I put them in I was stupid and the guy I contracted brought me lots of clay. I have been ammending to the best of my ability and limited knowledge ever since. Let's just say it is not loom yet.
All advice is appreciated.
