The Basics of Composting

Have you ever researched composting and just been frustrated and confused with all the different information available?  Composting can seem confusing and scientific.  Many people think that it takes too much time, with little benefit.  There are many products on the market to make the process easier, but they are usually cost prohibitive.  Is there a way to have a simple, effective compost pile?

To understand what type of compost pile fits your needs, you need to learn a little bit more about the four kinds of compost methods available, and what is acceptable to compost, and what is not. This is not an in depth guide, but a basic overview of the different composting methods.

To begin a compost pile, you’ll need either a cleared off area or pit, measuring no more than 1 cubic yard, or a compost bin.  Tools like a shovel or a rake will also be needed; some composting enthusiasts use a compost thermometer as well. You must also get an understanding of what is acceptable composting material.

Green Matter (Compost OK)	Brown Matter (Compost OK)	Never Compost
grass clippings prunings fruits and vegetables houseplants animal manure kitchen scraps	leaves bark straw woodchips sawdust newspaper (shredded) brush (chopped) corn stalks	bones dog/cat feces oil grease fat wood ash meat /fish scraps dairy products weed seeds diseased plants

 

Standard Method

This method is what most people employ.  This takes a small investment of time and space.  You need a place for your pile (Whether below or above ground) and a place to store your organic materials.  You must store your green matter separate from your brown until ready to use.  Keep in mind that green matter will rot fairly quick, so be sure to incorporate it into your pile as soon as possible.  To begin your pile, lay down a layer of browns, and then greens.  Add a few shovelfuls of soil.  You should keep a ratio of 1 part green to two parts brown from this point forward.  Mix once a week with a rake or shovel, adding browns and greens weekly.  Let this compost cure for a few weeks until it is brown, crumbly, and smells earthy.

Slow Method

This method is incredibly simple, but takes anywhere from 6 months to two years to harvest any compost.  There is no special ratio to mix with the slow method.  Just add materials as they become available.  When you add green to your pile, make sure to bury it or cover it with a few inches of active compost.  In 6 months you should have active compost at the bottom of your pile.

Fast Method

This method requires heavy duty equipment.  All your matter will need to be chopped or shredded before being added to your pile.  It must be aerated with a shovel every three days.

Vermicomposting

Vermicomposting is using worms to accelerate your composting process.  Whether indoors or outdoors, worms will add incredible nutritional value to your compost. 

A healthy compost pile will not smell foul or attract pests, and the benefits are well worth it!  Many wonderful resources should be available through your local extension office or garden supply store.

 

Megan Wilson is a stay at home mom, blogger, and freelance writer.  She occasionally writes on the importance of Radius maps.