hot bed

[wattapain]

I've decided to try a hotbed to grow my melons in.
I put a layer of fresh horsey poo and then a layer of compost.
What I read said to leave it for a couple of weeks to coold own before planting. But it doesn't look or feel warm - no steam or anything. It smells 'pooey' but some of it is quite crusty and I've bashed it about a bit with rake & fork.
Is this right - i thought it would feel warm!?!
Any ideas guys?
terri :)

[wattapain]

[wardy]

I think it should be insulated round the outside by straw bales on their ends and then the manure is chucked in about two thirds full and then top soil put on the top third.  Leave for a few weeks and then plant your cucumber or whatever.  I think I saw Chris Beardmore make one on telly  :)

[Debs]

I have an area on my plot which is surrounded by corrugated steel.

I have been adding kitchen waste to it and am going to add horse

poo which is quite well rotted.

Shall grow my butternut squash and/or pumpkins in it.

Have'nt tried this before but shall do so and see what the result is!

Debs  :)

[wardy]

I've got another builder's rubble sack which today I've filled with poop and squashes. Hope for great things  :)