Should you cover your compost over the winter?

The holidays are fast approaching, and so a young man’s thoughts turn to … compost! Mike McGrath, host of You Bet Your Garden, will discuss whether it’s a good idea to cover your pile over the winter or to let it go commando. Plus your fabulous phone calls.

Question of the Week:

I’m using leaves, grass clippings, coffee grounds, etc. to make compost. Would it be helpful to cover the compost pile with a plastic tarp for the winter? Would that help break down the leaves and grass clippings? (I could water the pile if the cover would keep it too dry.)
—Henry in Ambler, PA

Compost 101 »