Science

Compost Ratio Calculator

Balance greens and browns for fast compost.

Enter your values

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
Current C:N ratio
45:1
Verdict
Too much brown — add greens
Browns for target
10 kg
Total pile mass
60 kg

Quick answer

Compost breaks down fastest at a carbon to nitrogen ratio near 30:1.

C:N = Σ(mass × C:N) ÷ Σmass

How to use the Compost Ratio Calculator

  1. 1Weigh your greens and browns.
  2. 2Use typical C:N values or look up your materials.
  3. 3Adjust until the ratio sits near 30:1.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as greens?

Grass clippings, food scraps and manure.

Why does my pile smell?

Too many greens and not enough air — add browns and turn it.