How to Compost in Winter
Most people assume winter is the end of the gardening season, unless you are willing to invest in a greenhouse. One task that can continue in the winter is composting. Composting is largely a temperature-dependent process, but with a little preparation and some relatively inexpensive equipment, the garden enthusiast can keep up his hobby in colder weather. Winter composting also pays off by having a supply of organic material ready to use for spring planting. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Position the compost station in the best possible place. The sun and its warmth are crucial to the composting process. Choose a place that allows the compost station to catch full sun for as long as possible. If that means the compost must be visible to neighbors, look for a more secluded site but keep in mind the sun is key to continued composting.
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Build or buy a composting bin. The most basic is simply a four-wall box with one removable wall to allow for turning. You can build this or buy a pre-constructed one from a garden supply store.
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Collect leaves. Fall, of course, is the optimum time to collect them. Avoid putting heavy waxed leaves in a compost pile unless you cut them or shred them. Straw and hay are also excellent sources for creating compost.
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Insulate the compost bin. This can be done easily by either gluing or stapling insulating material to the inside of the bin. An inexpensive insulator can be made by simply using foam wrapped in black plastic. The black plastic will heat up and the foam will hold the heat.
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Dig a compost trench. An even cheaper way of composting is to dig a trench. The earth itself is a great insulator. Plus, you can do it directly in the area you want the compost. Add leaves and compost waste during winter and after the winter is over simply mix the removed soil.
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Reduce kitchen waste. A big factor in composting is worms, and they are much less active in the winter. Give the worms less kitchen waste in the winter.
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Check the compost bin drainage. Warm water can help accelerate the composting process but drainage is critical, especially in the winter. Worms can drown and the water can freeze under the compost if it can't drain out. The best choice is a compost bin with a mesh bottom, but if your compost bin is solid, simply drill holes on the bottom and sides every 3 to 4 inches.
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Add paper. Cardboard and waste paper mixed with kitchen and garden waste helps create compost. Paper tubes and crunched-up paper are great when buried under leaves and garden waste because it allows air to circulate and speed decomposition.
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Tips & Warnings
When the weather is likely to be dry and warmer for an extended period, pour some warm but not boiling water over the compost heap.
Shred leaves if possible to speed the composting process.
Avoid adding meat, fat, or bones to compost as it attracts pests.
Never add human excrement.
