I've been experimenting with static piles in zone 9B with low humidity and daily afternoon breeze up to 14 mph. I use fall leaves for insulation. To keep moisture consistent, I need about 50% more leaves on the upwind side of the pile. Currently I'm using 8 inches minimum and 12 inches on the upwind side. My piles are round, so the sides end up about 10 inches. I build the pile then surround it with cylinder made from chicken wire. I use 4 cheap-o U posts to keep them stable while filling. They are self supporting after the leaves settle. I recommend making the wire cylinder 12 inches taller than the pile. Else you will need to add leaves very frequently until things settle down. Next I will be experimenting with a cardboard fairing on the upwind side. My plan is to wrap it half way around (180 degrees of coverage).
I've been experimenting with static piles in zone 9B with low humidity and daily afternoon breeze up to 14 mph. I use fall leaves for insulation. To keep moisture consistent, I need about 50% more leaves on the upwind side of the pile. Currently I'm using 8 inches minimum and 12 inches on the upwind side. My piles are round, so the sides end up about 10 inches. I build the pile then surround it with cylinder made from chicken wire. I use 4 cheap-o U posts to keep them stable while filling. They are self supporting after the leaves settle. I recommend making the wire cylinder 12 inches taller than the pile. Else you will need to add leaves very frequently until things settle down. Next I will be experimenting with a cardboard fairing on the upwind side. My plan is to wrap it half way around (180 degrees of coverage).
So it's NOT aerated?