Directions for Bin Composting
Composting is a great way to eliminate organic matter from household trash, as well as to create rich, fertile soil for gardens and landscaping. Bin composting involves placing the organic matter into a bin, which is usually square, but can be other shapes as well. Once matter is placed into a compost bin, it is maintained by aerating it to encourage the growth of organisms. These organisms feed on the decaying matter, and help to speed up the process of decomposition. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Compost bin
- Brown organic matter
- Garden hose
- Green organic matter
- Soil
- Shovel
Instructions
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1
Place a compost bin in an outdoor area that receives direct sunlight. Because you will use the garden hose frequently with the compost bin, consider placing the bin in an area within easy reach of the hose.
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2
Place a 2-inch to 3-inch layer of brown organic material into the compost bin. Brown organic material consists of leaves, pine straw, tea bags, newspaper, sawdust, cardboard and shredded paper. Use a garden hose to lightly wet the layer with water.
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Insert a 2-inch to 3-inch layer of green organic material on top of the brown layer. Green organic materials are items that still contain moisture, such as table scraps, grass clippings, fruits and vegetables, yard trimmings and coffee grounds. Use a garden hose to lightly wet this layer with water as well.
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4
Spread one or two shovels of soil, or compost if available, on top of the matter inside the bin. The soil contains the microorganisms that will begin to feed on the organic matter. Use a garden hose to lightly wet the layer with water. At this point he compost bin should be damp but not soaking.
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Continue filling the compost bin until you reach the top by alternating brown matter with green matter, and then soil. Be sure to water each layer.
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Wait two weeks and then use a shovel to mix the compost. Mixing the compost allows air to penetrate the material, which results in faster decomposition.
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Tips & Warnings
Once the initial layers are created, you can add any type of organic matter into the compost bin as you get it. You do not have to worry about maintaining layers, although you should try to maintain a ratio of 50 percent green material to 50 percent brown material.
The compost will be fully decomposed and ready to use in about 2 to 15 weeks, depending on the outdoor temperature.
