Hot Compost

I like the idea of using a hot compost pile to enable the use of all the organic matter we produce- even if weeds have gone to seed or the squash have powdery mildew. My understanding is that a well managed hot compost pile will kill weed seeds and pathogens. What makes me a bit nervous is the fact that, after watching several Elain Ingham videos, I'm not sure I can manage the pile adequately to safely use "undesirable" materials. We have 2 properties and sometimes I let a pile sit longer than it should between turning. Ms. Ingham makes it sound imparetive to turn the pile on schedule to avoid ruining the entire batch. Recently I saw some information on African farmers who manage hot compost with much less precision but good results. Does anyone have any words of wisdom on how much precision is needed to be able to safely use weeds with seeds and mildewed leaves?

Welcome to the forums!

I think my piece of wisdom is why leave it to chance? If you can get your hands on a compost thermometer, you can see when you reach 'hot' composting and when it would be time to flip it.

No schedule besides a quick check here and there.

I am very lazy with my piles, and I turn them less than they should be. Weeds and all go into it. It however processes down with time. I however take my time. I could definitely speed up the composting process for finished product but haven't yet. That's on me.

Welcome to permies!

If you get temperature up to 140F it will kill off any pathogens and weed seeds, but you need to get all the compost up to that temperature.  But you will be turning the pile a few times so I think that is guaranteed.

I don't own a compost thermometer. I just observe the pile steaming and if its hot to touch its good enough for me. Also dont forget that 120F for longer time is just as good as 140 for a short time in sterilizing compost.