How to store compost for winter?

[OneDahlia]

I have some compost that is very composted and ready to use. What's the best way to keep it over the winter? I put it in plastic tubs to get it out of my compost bin so I can start a new pile, but I'm guessing it would be better off in a pile on the ground so it can't hold water and turn into sludge? Maybe covered with plastic?

Also, do nutrients leech out of old compost?

[Redbaron]

Originally Posted by OneDahlia

I have some compost that is very composted and ready to use. What's the best way to keep it over the winter? I put it in plastic tubs to get it out of my compost bin so I can start a new pile, but I'm guessing it would be better off in a pile on the ground so it can't hold water and turn into sludge? Maybe covered with plastic?

Also, do nutrients leech out of old compost?

If you store it in your garden and any nutrients leak out, they will leak into the garden where you want them. That's why number 1 option for lazy gardeners like me is just put it in the garden. If you need a bit set aside for seedlings next spring, just store it in one of those extra thick black plastic lawn trash bags sealed up tight for the winter.

[TightenUp]

http://www.tomatoville.com/showthread.php?t=25103

check out this thread. it has a poll so you can see what everyone thinks

you can see i flip flopped with what to do....i ended up putting in 20 gallon totes. i used 5 of them and they went in the shed

[OneDahlia]

Good ideas, and thanks for the thread link too!