How to : Quick and Easy Compost

Starting a compost pile can be a quick and easy project. A compost pile can take up just a small amount of space in a hidden corner of the garden. Once you have started a compost pile, you continue to build the pile gradually as material becomes available.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• compost bin
• dried leaves or garden soil
• vegtable matter

1. 

   You can place your compost pile anywhere, but choice of location will have an effect on the speed of the decay process. If you live in a cool climate, choose a sunny location so that the heat of the sun will help the compost pile heat up. If you live in a warmer climate, choose a location that will keep the compost pile from warming too much and losing moisture. An ideal location is on level ground covered with sod or soil.

2. 

   There are many ready-made compost bins that can be purchased or you can make your own. If one side of the composter is removable, it gives easy access to compost. Do not make a compost bin with all solid sides as adequate oxygen is needed in the decomposition process. There is also the option of a large open pile.

3. 

   The best way to start a compost pile is to layer vegetable matter between layers of healthy soil. Healthy soil can be replaced by shredded, dry leaves. Water each 8-12 inch layer without making it soggy. Continue to build the pile ,cover the top with a 6 inch soil layer. Given adequate oxygen and water, a good working compost pile will consume: raw kitchen waste, coffee grounds, sawdust and vacuum cleaner fluff. Avoid woody material if you want quick results.

4. 
   Finished compost resemble chocolate cake

   Your compost is ready when it is black or dark brown, sweet smelling and crumbly. Use it around trees, perennials or shrubs.

Tips & Warnings

• Yardwaste, grass clippings and other green matter can be used in your compost pile, but take longer to break down.
• If you are not using a compost bin, make sure your freestanding pile is at least 3 feet high and 3 feet wide.
• Many of the tumbler type composters are useful in a faster pile; a few, quick turns of your tumbler aerate the compost.
• Red earthworms can be purchased and used to speed up the decomposition process.
• Do not use human or pet waste in your compost pile.
• Do not use any cooked food scraps or anything containing grease in your compost pile.

Resources

• Tumbleweed Composter
• Composter: Back Porch ComposTumbler
• How To Make Compost

[cclofmead]

on 5/30/2009 Great tips on a quick and easy compost!! 5* rec

[jerryb1]

on 3/12/2009 Nice item and wonderful pics.

[FrazzledNanny]

on 3/11/2009 Thanks for the great tip. I've been wanting to do this. Now I think I can. 5*

[bababatkins]

on 3/11/2009 My neighbour adds her own feces and this works a treat! I grab a handful of her newest batch and it really speeds up my plant growth.

[juliemcmurchie]

on 3/6/2009 Thanks for the quick tips. I'll be putting them use. Favs and 5*