1. Moisture : It's important to keep a constant level of moisture in the composter. A lack of water will slow down or completely halt the decomposition process, while too much water will interfere with aeration and the compost will smell of rot. A quick way of telling if the compost is properly moist: take a handful from the centre of the compost heap and shape it into a ball; if the ball crumbles, the compost is too dry; if the ball drips, the compost is too wet.


2. Air : Air keeps the micro-organisms in the compost alive. Aeration activates the bacteria, increasing the speed by which the organic material decomposes. The BluePlanetSmart's rotating tumbler makes it possible to turn the material over quickly and effectively, improving the aeration needed to mature the compost. Aeration should be done at least 3 or 4 times a week.
   
3. Temperature : The various stages of the composting process are marked by changes in temperature. The heat put out is important because it helps promote the activity of the micro-organisms, sterilizes the compost (destroying dangerous pathogens) and plays a role in dehydration. The quicker the temperature rises, the quicker the compost reaches maturity.
   

Achieving good composting rapidly, especially in an aerobic process such as the BluePlanetSmart, calls for paying attention to the temperature. Compost that doesn't heat up to the minimum required will take much longer to decompose and will be of inferior quality.

Active compost should ideally reach temperatures between 125°F and 160°F. The higher the temperature, the better the destruction of unwanted organisms (such as weed seeds) and the faster the decomposition.

A drop in compost temperature or compost that won't heat up indicates a problem. It could mean that better aeration is needed, in which case rotate the tumbler more frequently. It could also be a moisture problem. If the pile is too dry, add water while turning the tumbler or add nitrogen-rich material (greens). If it's too wet, remove the cover to let excess moisture evaporate or add carbon-rich material (browns).