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I started composting by accident. It started in the fall when I designated a spot to put our raked leaves and continued in the spring when our lawn clippings were added to the same spot. Imagine my surprise when I decided we should start composting and I learned that we had already started!

What is Composting?

Composting is the process where organic materials are broken down into a material that is used for adding to the soil to make plants grow stronger and healthier. Composting is a faster way of decomposing materials that are naturally decomposed in nature. Adding compost to your soil improves water retention in the soil and adds nutrients to the soil.

Where to Compost

Many people use a composting bin to make compost, but this is not necessary. All you need is an area that is easily accessible and at least 3 feet long by 3 feet wide. You will want to end up with a pile that is 3 feet high. This will make your pile big enough to decompose without a bin.

How to Compost

To make compost you must alternate layers of carbon-rich materials with nitrogen-rich materials, putting a thin layer of finished compost or garden soil in between. Carbon-rich, or brown, materials include leaves, twigs, brush, hay, eggshells, paper, coffee grounds, tea bags, and sawdust. Nitrogen-rich, or green, materials include vegetable peelings, fruit peelings, green plant cuttings, annual weeds, and young hedge trimmings. There are some things that you should not put into your compost pile and these include animal products, dairy products, feces, and treated wood. Some of these simply slow down the decomposition process and others are dangerous because they may cause poisoning or disease.

Building your Compost Pile

-Start with a four inch base layer of coarse brown materials, such as twigs, brush, and hay and moisten the layer.

-Add a four inch layer of green material and moisten.

-Add a thin layer of soil or finished compost.

-Add a four inch layer of brown material and moisten.

-Repeat steps 2 through 4 until your pile is 3 feet high.

If you keep your pile moist and turn it (mix it) every two weeks the middle of your pile will turn dark and crumbly with a soil-like smell to it. This is compost that is ready to use. Remove the finished compost and start your new composting pile with any leftover material from this pile that has not fully decomposed.

Now you are ready to start your own composting pile. It is easy, and if you are like me you may already have started one without realizing it.

Happy composting!

Sources:

http://www. compost-info-guide.com

http://w ww.organicgardening.com

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Flood.
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