Compost Tips & Tricks!

Composting is a natural way to break down yard waste into a useful organic fertilizer and soil additive. It's not only a great way to rid your yard of debris, but also put it to good use in the garden. If you follow these simple tips, you'll have "black gold" in your garden in no time.

Composter Confusion?

Composters come in all shapes and sizes, and are a great way to recycle garden waste. They supply protection from winds and excess water, as well as helping the sun to heat up your pile. My Compost Tumbler is an easy-to-use, basic model that's sure to give you super compost results.

Pile Preparation and Care

Once you've decided on a composter, the next step is to fill it. For best results, follow these steps:

• Gather up all of the compostable kitchen waste (green material) you can find.
• At the bottom of the composter (if it doesn't have a screen), place a layer of twigs or sticks about 3" to 4" high. This will allow air to circulate at the bottom of the pile, and help prevent odors.
• Next, place 8-10" of leaves, grass, or plant trimmings onto the twigs, followed by a layer of brown material (dried leaves, woodchips, hay, twigs) and a layer of green material.
• Water until moist, but not soggy
• Now you're ready to get the pile cookin'. You can do this by adding compost activator.
• Finally, sprinkle soil over the top, and again overspray with a compost activator.
• Repeat these layers until your bin is filled.

Remember to turn your pile periodically, and water to keep it moist. Try not to add fresh material to your pile, if possible. Within 4 weeks, a well managed compost pile will be ready for use. It should be about half its original height, and have a pleasant, earthy smell. That's all there is to making your own rich, nutrient-filled compost. Try it! Your yard and garden will thank you.