Compost Ratio Calculator
Calculate the carbon-to-nitrogen (browns to greens) ratio for a healthy compost pile.
In liters or buckets (use the same unit for both fields).
In the same unit as the browns above.
Browns-to-Greens Ratio
Assessment
Understanding the Browns-to-Greens Ratio
A healthy compost pile depends on the balance between carbon-rich "browns" and nitrogen-rich "greens". Browns provide energy and air pockets, while greens supply the nitrogen and moisture that feed the microbes breaking down your pile. By volume, most home composters aim for roughly 2 to 3 parts browns for every 1 part greens.
Examples of Each
- Browns (carbon-rich): dry leaves, straw, cardboard, wood chips, sawdust, shredded paper
- Greens (nitrogen-rich): food scraps, fresh grass clippings, coffee grounds, vegetable peels, manure
Tips for a Healthy Pile
- If the pile smells bad or is slimy, it likely has too many greens. Add more browns.
- If the pile is dry and slow to break down, it likely has too many browns. Add more greens and water.
- Chop or shred materials to speed up decomposition.
- Turn the pile regularly to add oxygen and mix the materials.
- Keep the pile as moist as a wrung-out sponge.
Note: This calculator uses a simple volume-based ratio as a practical guide for home composting. The ideal carbon-to-nitrogen balance varies with the specific materials used, their moisture content, and how finely they are chopped. Use the result as a starting point and adjust based on how your pile looks and smells.