Bone Compost

Can bones be composted? It is surprising to many people that you can compost your bones.

It’s safe to add bones to compost.

This guide will explain which bones decompose quickly and how to do it. I will also explain the steps to follow in order to compost bones properly and avoid problems like pests and odors.

Can you compost bones?

You need to distinguish between the following types of bones when composting them:

• Chicken
• Pork
• Beef and wild game
• Fish

Let’s look at the differences in each type of bone.

Chicken Bones

Can you compost cooked chicken bones? You can compost chicken bones, but it is better to compost cooked bones to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.

Composting chicken bones is the best option because they decompose faster than other bones types.

Pork Bones

Pork bones are also compostable, but they may take longer to decompose because they are thicker.

The marrow, meat remnants, and bones will decompose faster.

Wild Game And Beef

The bones of wild game, such as deer and elk, and beef, are usually large and thick. This reduces the likelihood that the entire bone will disintegrate in your compost tumbler anytime soon.

If you don’t have the time or space to compost large bones, it is best to avoid adding them.

Some people choose to run the bones of beef through the compost bin multiple times and then remove the marrow from the bones.

Fish Bones

The bones of fish are the easiest to compost, as they tend to break down and decompose quickly.

The smell of fish scraps is greatly reduced by allowing them to dry before adding them into the compost bin.

How long does it take for bones to decompose?

Bones that are buried can last for many years or even centuries, depending on the soil type and the weather.

Knowing what can accelerate the composting process is very helpful for those who wish to do so.

Bones consist of calcium phosphate fibers and collagen. Bones are made up of calcium phosphate and collagen fibers.

Even in a “hot”, compost bin, it could take several years to break down uncut beef or fish bones.

Consider changing your composting ingredients to be more acidic. This will accelerate the decomposition of bones.

Composting bones

Follow these steps to compost bones:

Step 1- Go For Hot Composting.

The fastest way to reduce animal bone is by hot composting.

The bacteria that thrive in moist, heated conditions will help to break down bone material faster and reduce the odor.

It is not recommended to add bones to the cold composting heap, as animals will easily dig up and smell meat bones.

If you do not have a compost pile, then you can dig an area in your garden that is at least 2 feet deep. Bury the bone scraps there.

Once I have replaced the dirt with a new layer, I place a flat piece of wire mesh and a large stone on top of it to keep it in place. The mesh prevents animals from digging while the bones naturally decompose.

Step 2 – Break The Bones.

If you want to encourage rapid breakdown, break or cut bones as small as possible. Just like you would with vegetable scraps or other scraps that you add to your compost.

If you want to cut up fish or chicken bones quickly, invest in a pair of bone shears.

You can use a hacksaw or a hammer to smash large bones into smaller pieces. This will allow the microbes to have more surface area to grow on once they are placed in the compost pile.

Step 3 – Compost Pile Positioning.

Do not put bones on your compost pile, and do not think that a layer or leaves will keep pests away.

The temperature of the compost pile should be between 160 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

The microbes will pay close attention to the bones, so don’t disturb them for a few weeks.

You can also bury them in the middle of the pile to prevent flies and animals from digging out the bones.

Compost piles are best when they have more material between the bones and the outside.

Consider choosing a bin that has doors you can lock if pests are a problem in your area.

Step 4 – Practice Patience.

It will take some time for bones to completely disintegrate in compost.

Try experimenting with to determine the best way to prepare the bones and other ingredients for the composter.

It may take a few months for thick bones like those from deer, beef, or pork to dissolve, but it can still be nine months.

After a compost batch has been completed, you can either bury the bone fragments or recompose them.

In summary.

You can compost not only chicken bones but also other types of bone scraps you may have when cooking for your family.

You’ll be composting like a pro with a little patience and preparation!