Book 29, Question 102
Why does a compost pile need air and moisture?
The tiny living things that break down scraps need oxygen, like you do.
If a pile is packed too tightly or soaked, the air is squeezed out and it starts to smell sour. The pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge: damp but not dripping. Stirring or turning mixes in air. Adding dry browns can soak up extra moisture.