Strong Ammonia Odor in Compost

Question

I worked compost into my raised beds and noticed a very strong ammonia odor. My beds are for vegetables and herbs. What do I do now? Will I be able to plant this year? I have about 1.5 yards left that I was going to spread on my flower beds. Can I use this or will it burn my shrubs?

Answer 1

Ammonia smells from compost usually mean too many greens and not enough brown material in the pile. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/compost-smells-bad.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/ingredients/browns-greens-compost.htm