Beneficial organic compost is prized by both flower and vegetable gardeners who want healthy, robust plants. Making your own compost is easy. The ingredients are plant parts, kitchen vegetable scraps, paper scraps, some animal waste products, beneficial nematodes, and moisture. These things can be mixed in almost any way, but the one that cannot be removed if you want organic compost is the water. The compost will not cook, or break down if it is dry.

How do you make rich organic compost in dry weather or a dry climate? Below are several great ways to keep the compost pile or bin moist enough for the materials to break down to rich, black earth.

Compost in Dry Weather Gardens - The Right Container

If you live in a dry climate or are experiencing a drought, you need to build your compost pile in a container that retains water. Using a plastic barrel or drum is a great idea. You can also build one out of wood if you prefer something more natural. You do not want to use screening, widely-spaced slats, or chicken wire if you want to make organic compost for a dry weather garden.

Compost in Dry Weather Gardens - Start Out Right

Beginning your compost pile in dry weather involves a lot of water from the hose. Every time you add another layer to the organic compost, use the hose to soak the materials until it is about as damp as a wrung out rag. Make the layers of compost thinner than in wet weather gardens as well.

Compost in Dry Weather Gardens - Catching Water

When it does rain in your dry climate, you want the compost bin to catch as much water as possible. Make the top of the compost indented like a bowl. Less water will run off this way. Also, you can create a water tube to hydrate the inside of the compost pile. Simply drill holes around a one to two inch PVC pipe and shove it into the center of the organic compost pile. Fill this with water and let it leach out into the compost.

Having an organic compost pile for your dry weather climate is possible with some preparation and maintainance. Since the compost needs moisture to transform into the final product, you must introduce extra water to the pile. Using a water-tight container and lessening the frequency of turning the compost are great ideas. Catch as much water as you can in your dry climate and you can enjoy rich organic compost for your dry weather garden.

Learn more about this author, Melanie Marten.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Compost: How to make better dirt than you can buy?
We want to hear your view. Write now!