Rich compost helps your garden to flourish. But to get good compost, there is a need to monitor the temperature to know when it’s time to turn it and when it’s mature enough to plant on else you may end up guessing wrong and getting your plants all destroyed from the word go.
The Best Compost Thermometer helps you keep track of the temperature of your soil; hence, it is essential to purchase the best one. In this article, we take a look at compost thermometers and factors to consider when making a buying decision.
BEST CHOICE
REOTEMP Backyard Compost Thermometer
Best Compost Thermometer in Our Rating
- 3 temperature zones for easy identification
- Special instructions included
- Biodegradable packaging
- Manufacturer support
Selecting the Best Compost Thermometers
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Top Compost Thermometer on the Market
There are hundreds of compost thermometers on the market no doubt, so to make it easier for you to choose, after careful research we bring you our top ten that definitely deserve your attention. They include:
1. REOTEMP Backyard Compost Thermometer-Most Reliable Thermometer
With composting, we most often rely on our instinct and years of experience to get the job done, but this is not only unprofessional, but it’s also not reliable.
We start off our list with REOTEMP Backyard Compost Thermometer. To help you understand the working mechanics, this compost thermometer comes with an instruction manual and it is ideal for a compost tumbler, bin, and pile.
The thermometer features a thick ¼-inch diameter stem which cannot easily be bent as it’s very thick. It also has a dial which is hermetically sealed to prevent fogging; hence it can be left overnight in the compost. It has a reinforced construction; in this way, it avoids separation of the dial from the stem.
Readings are not difficult to take, all you need do is take a glance at the dial and you will get the information you need, no stress, no hassle. The only problem we seem to have with this product is its price as it’s a bit expensive.
- Comes with an instruction manual
- Can be read at a glance
- It has a thickened diameter stem which guarantees its durability
- It has a sealed dial to prevent fogging
- It is a bit expensive
2. Greenco Gardening Compost Soil Thermometer-Most Durable Compost Thermometer
It’s not enough to rely on your years of experience when it comes to accurately reading your compost, it may get tricky at times, and it’s also tedious and undependable. Hence, for this purpose (and many more) there is a need to have a compost thermometer that takes the stress off your hands.
When it comes to durability of the product, Greenco Gardening Compost Soil Thermometer has a solid 20 inch, and 0.2 inch diameter stem, along with a reinforced welding between its dial and its stem. It is also made of stainless steel, all of which ensure it functions well for a long time and in good condition too.
It’s made to be easily read as it has a 2-inch wide dial along with color-coded temperature range which reads from 40F to 180F and then -17.77oC to -82.22oC in 2o increase which ensures that readings are accurate.
Its lens is made of high-quality material and is hermetically sealed, it is lightweight and PC coated, all of which prevents it from fogging and also ensures that moisture does not find its way into the lens. To ensure quality, it has IP55 moisture-resistant rating along with a lifetime warranty.
- It has a stainless steel construction
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Has color-coded temperature range for an easy read
- It is robustly designed
- Dial sometimes becomes foggy
3. REOTEMP Heavy Duty Compost Thermometer-Best For Industrial Composting
From the stables of REOTEMP, comes yet another product and this time it’s the REOTEMP Heavy Duty Compost Thermometer. It is an industrial composting thermometer suitable for those involved in lots of composting.
As such, the thermometer has a stainless steel construction which makes it an anti-rust thermometer. It also has a sturdy 36-inch stem which is long enough to get to the center of a much more massive compost heap to enable you to get an accurate reading of the compost.
With its 5/16 inch diameter, it makes it easy to insert the thermometer into the densest compost without the fear of bending or snapping its pole. Although it does not have a color-code range of temperature for an easy read, its large dial makes up for it as it ensures it’s visible enough. It has a dual scale that reads from 0oF up to 200oF and from -10oC to 90oC.
Since it’s hermetically sealed, it won’t get damaged by water neither will it become foggy. It comes with a one-year limited warranty and works well with REOTEMP FM-0 Probe Guard which gives the dial extra protection.
- Ideal for heavy-duty composting
- It is resistant to rust
- Has a dual purpose temperature scale
- Easily recalibrateable
- It does not have a color-code temperature range
- It is a bit expensive
4. Cate’s Garden Compost Thermometer-Most Sturdy Product
Cate’s Garden Compost Thermometer like other thermometers in this review is easy to read, and it’s accurate too. It comes with a 2-inch dial that is wide enough and has the temperature written in a range of color codes for easy read and identification. The temperature ranges from 40oF to 180oF (equivalent to 4oC to 82oC) and is able to increase by every 2oF change to ensure accurate reading.
Again, like the others, the lens is made of high-quality PC-coated materials which are sealed hermetically to avoid fogging and water penetration. It is made more water-secure with its IP55 rating.
There’s also the fact that it has a sturdy construction, this is made possible by its reinforced welding between the dial stem, it also is made of 304-grade stainless steel, a feature that makes it rust-resistant.
The stem, which is 20 inches and 3/16 inches in diameter, is durable and can be relied upon for accurate reading so it is ideal for backyard composting. The temperature can be taken from the tip and read within half a minute. The only complaint we have is that the user guide is not clear enough, but it has a 100% money-back guarantee in case of defect or dissatisfaction with the product.
- It has a rugged construction
- It is durable and reliable
- Made of high-quality lens
- Has 100% money return guarantee
- The instruction manual is hard to read
5. Compost Thermometer Soil-Most Cost-Effective Compost Thermometer
If you are a passionate gardener, then the wellbeing of your soil should be your top priority. One of the ways to adequately look after your soil is by the use of a compost thermometer.
The Compost Thermometer Soil is a sizeable compost thermometer that is easy to read; it has 295mm probe length, measures 50mm in diameter and can be used for all temperature zones.
Made with stainless steel, it will not rust; it also ensures accurate reading of your compost, as it’s functioning within the maximum range. It is made of high-quality materials which make it waterproof and durable. However, its durability and quality are up for debate as some do not think it’s durable or made of good quality materials.
That notwithstanding, the product also boasts of exceptional customer care service who are always ready to attend to customers any time of the day. You need not wait to get a reading, insert the stem into the middle of the compost and you will get the result immediately.
- It is made of high-quality material
- It is relatively cheap
- Can take readings within all temperature zones
- Easy to read
- Does not register temperature changes easily
- It is prone to breaks
6. Mr Garden Compost Thermometer-Best Design
In the sixth position is Mr Garden Compost Thermometer. The dial is color-coded, which makes it easy to read the temperature, just ensure it’s placed in the right area and you will get a reading. More specific is the lens which has a special coating and is hermetically sealed to prevent the penetration of moisture; it can even be left in the compost overnight.
The 304 stainless steel plated thermometer has an attractive design, but this does not have a negative effect on its functionality as it’s reliable, sturdy, durable, and rust-resistant.
It has a two-inch dial temperature range which falls between 0oF to 22o0F and -20oC to -100oC; hence, it can take readings both in hot and cold regions.
It has a long stem that is 20 inches long, which can be dipped into the compost while temperature reading is taken from the tip, no hassles whatsoever. If after purchase you are dissatisfied with the product or encounter any issues, you can always return it and get back your money as it has a 100% money-back guarantee. It comes with a guide on composting and temperature zone and also Celsius conversion, all of which are printed at the back of the product.
- It is hermetically sealed to prevent water penetration
- Can be left overnight without fear of defect
- It is easy to read and durable
- Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee
- It is not readily available
- It’s somewhat costly
7. Tel-tru GT300R Compost Thermometer-Product With The Most Stable Handle
By understanding the temperature readings of your compost, you will be able to know when it’s time to turn the pile and when the compost is ready. Tel-tru GT300R Compost Thermometer has a zoned dial of three inches, a 48-inch stem along with 0/200oF, and an insertion handle which makes it easy and convenient to take temperature readings of your compost.
Made with sturdy stainless steel that is 48 inches long (1219mm) and 3/8 inches in diameter (9.5mm) it guarantees it is not just strong but rust-resistant as well. The stem support is made for heavy-duty operations and comes with an inbuilt mount which can be used as an optional handle for cases where there is a need to get the temperature of a dense compost or soil.
The insertion handle also ensures the stability of the thermometer and will prevent it from getting damaged while it’s in use.
It is easy to read, and the temperature covers all zones; hence, it’s easy to see how your compost is faring. It has a rapid response tip that helps you easily take readings from multiple points. It is durable and can be relied upon to give accurate readings.
- It comes with insertion handle for extra stability
- It is made of stainless steel which makes it anti-rust
- Readings can be seen clearly
- Can be used for a large compost
- Water may sometimes get in
- Does not have a color-zoned temperature reading
8. Yardwe Compost Soil Thermometer-Dual Purpose Compost Thermometer
Without knowledge of your compost temperature, you can plant at the wrong time, thereby destroying the plants even before they have grown, but this can be avoided with the use of a compost thermometer.
Yardwe Compost Soil Thermometer is a silver-colored thermometer made with rugged stainless steel material which ensures it lasts long and does not rust, too. It gives very accurate readings and is really easy to read. It is not restricted to outdoor gardening alone but can also be used for indoor one.
It covers a wide range of temperature, from cold regions to hot regions, it is also made to stand the test of time and withstand any temperature without fogging up or breaking, this makes it very durable and reliable. To use this thermometer, insert it into your compost heap, and the readings can be taken immediately, it’s that fast.
We aren’t satisfied with the fact that it has no color-coded range of temperature readings and it is not hermetically sealed, but then it’s still clear enough to be read and does not fog easily.
- Can be used for indoor and outdoor gardening
- It is durable
- It does not fog up easily, and readings can be seen clearly
- Has high precision performance
- It has no colour-coded range of temperature
- It does not come with a user guide
9. FreeGarden TEMP EWC-32 Enviro World Compost Thermometer-Most Environmentally Friendly Product
Even professional gardeners understand the need for compost thermometers. They are an effective means of identifying the temperature of your compost thereby helping to determine when your compost is mature enough to be used.
FreeGarden TEMP EWC-32 Enviro World Compost Thermometer is ideal for determining the temperature of your compost. The dial, which is 2.5 inches long, is easy to read, it has a stem which is 19 inches long, and hence it can be inserted into your compost heap to get the temperature readings.
It is made of stainless steel material, a feature that makes it durable, along with a pointed tip that helps you take your readings. It has no mercury and is designed to be eco-friendly. It can take temperature readings within the temperature range of 80oF to 180oF.
However, despite claims of its durability, there have been several complaints as it’s being said to break after some time and its temperature readings sometimes go off. Still, we like the fact that there it’s an environmentally friendly thermometer.
- It is eco-friendly
- It is easy to read
- It has both Fahrenheit and Celsius scale dial
- Has a long stem for easy insertion into compost heaps
- It is somewhat fragile
- The temperature sometimes goes off
- It does not have a sheath; hence it can’t be left in the compost for long
10. Yuayan Premium Stainless Steel Compost Soil Thermometer-Best Lightweight Product
The last but certainly not the least is the Yuayan Premium Stainless Steel Compost Soil Thermometer. Although it’s relatively new on the market, it is still of high quality. Its 50mm wide dial can be seen clearly and is easy to read.
It also features the lens of high quality and is lightweight too. To take the readings, simply lift the shaft to push it in and pull out. The temperature readings, which take only about 30 seconds to come up, can be taken from the tip of the thermometer.
There’s the fact that it has a rugged construction as it has a tough and reinforced welding between the stem and the dial to ensure it operates for a long time. To avoid fogging, which is a major setback for most compost thermometers; it is hermetically sealed, thereby preventing water from penetrating the lens.
However, it is best not to leave it inside the compost all day or night as it may break and get damaged. Also, it only comes with the compost thermometer and not other accessories featured in the demo picture.
- It has high quality and lightweight lens
- It has a rugged construction to ensure durability
- Easy to read and wide dial
- Hermetically sealed to avoid water penetration
- Cannot be left in the compost for a long time
- Its demo picture is deceptive
Factors to Consider When Buying a Compost Thermometer
Buying a compost thermometer can be quiet challenging to gardeners; this is because there is limited knowledge of its use and the features that make the best products. Hence, you may not know what to look out for when buying one. However, this should not be an issue anymore as we will be sharing with you the features that characterize compost thermometer of high quality. They include:
The Measuring Unit
Different regions have different temperature readings. While some areas use Celsius as their standard reading, others use Fahrenheit. For instance, America uses Fahrenheit, while the UK uses Celsius.
Different compost thermometers have different readings; however, it’s best to go for a dual scale thermometer as in that way you can get your readings both in Celsius and Fahrenheit.
The Probe Length
To take temperature readings, there is a need to insert the thermometer at the center of the compost heap. Hence, you should look for thermometers that can reach the center of compost piles without kinking or breaking.
While buying a compost thermometer, go for one which has a long yet thick probe, it ensures you get an accurate reading of your compost while still keeping the stem intact when it’s in use.
The Construction
It is common knowledge that compost piles are always moist. It is therefore important that while purchasing a compost thermometer, you purchase a rust-resistant thermometer to prevent rusting when it’s inserted into the pile. Also, watch out for tightly sealed thermometers as this prevents waters from getting into the thermometer.
The Temperature Range
Most compost thermometers come in three temperature ranges which are; hot, active and steady zones. With this, it’s easier to monitor the temperature level of your compost pile.
Also, consider thermometers that have a temperature increment of up to 2 degrees as this ensures you capture even the slightest temperature change in your compost heap.
What Is The Temperature Saying?
If after getting the temperature reading of your compost you have no knowledge of its meaning, then it’s all for naught. Hence, it is essential to know what the temperature of your compost says.
Compost undergoes three stages before it is considered mature for use. The first stage is the mesophilic stage. This stage has a temperature range of 68oF to 104oF. When it’s within this temperature, range, you should turn the compost so that it can progress to the next stage.
This will bring you to the next step, which is the thermophilic stage; here the temperature is within a range of 105oF to 150oF. Once your compost gets to this temperature range, then turn it again, this leads it to the maturation stage.
It’s easy to detect if your compost is at the maturation stage, that’s because it will not heat up further even after turning the compost repeatedly. Once your compost is at this stage, then it’s ready for use.
Wrap Up
No matter how rich your compost may be, without the best compost thermometer, it’s difficult to know when to turn or when to plant so you may destroy all your hard work that way. Hence, it is essential to purchase one and save yourself the headache.
Although it may seem small, a compost thermometer is so powerful that the most passionate gardeners can’t do without one and you shouldn’t too, not if you love to see your plants flourish.
