Things You'll Need:
- Compost bin
- Shovel or pitchfork
- Water
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Step 1
Start your compost bin with a layer of coarse "brown" materials at the bottom. Brown materials are organic waste that is usually brown-colored, or plants that have died and have turned brown. According to reduce.org, a layer of larger materials such as dried leaves, small sticks and twigs or wood chips will improve the success of your compost by improving air circulation. The bottom layer should be about 6 inches deep.
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Step 2
Add a layer of "green" materials that is about 4 to 6 inches deep. Green materials are organic waste that is green, or still fresh, such as grass clippings, fresh prunings, vegetable scraps and fresh manure. If you choose to include manure, be sure that the manure is from acceptable sources, such as cattle, horses, rabbits, sheep or chickens.
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Step 3
Mix the brown and green materials together and allow them to sit for about a week before adding more material.
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Step 4
Add new organic waste materials as they accrue, but attempt to add fairly equal amounts of brown and green materials to keep the pile in balance. Vegetable peelings can be buried in different places in the pile to avoid attracting vermin and insects.
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Step 5
Turn the pile over, or mix it at least once a week. Turning the pile helps distribute organic waste evenly, allows oxygen to enter the pile, and prevents compaction.
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Step 6
Water the pile as needed, depending on weather and location. The pile should be kept moist, but not soggy. Reduce.org notes that the compost moisture should be similar to a damp sponge and small beads of moisture should appear when it is squeezed. If it is too dry, add a little water and turn the pile. If it becomes too wet or soggy, add some brown materials and turn the pile.
