Compost problems

I started a compost about a month ago using a huge plastic composter, I was really good and tried to layer greens and browns and some veggie peelings but looked today and not much is happening. OK before you all shout :flag:I know it will take an age to break down, I just thought something might be happening by now eg that it may have dropped a bit or feel warm,but the only thing that does seem to be happening is that the greens have turned brown and the browns have gone woodier!
I don't want to use an activator, but how will I know when / if I should?

 

the activity within compost slows right down during the colder months. Just keep filling up as you are doing. Any activity will be taking place in the centre, out of sight.

An activator that is free and readily available is human compost activator. Its easier for men!

Here's quite a good link

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-compost-activator.htm

 

Louise,at this time of the year bins tend to slow down. I make sure my 5 bins are ready to empty about now and only use the Dalek for fresh waste,I find that once the first mowings of the year get mixed in they soon heat up.
Perhaps you could try the NT's new method for an activator:D
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mai...ng-could-activate-a-composting-revolution.htm

 

I did get the men of the household to pee into the composter , but they kept leaving the lid up!