FOUR EASY STEPS TO COMPOSTING

Starting Your Own Compost Bin  



Step One: Choose a 4' x 4' area to place bin or pile, preferably in the shade. Add a layer of "brown" organic materials rich in carbon, like straw, leaves or chopped twigs.

Step Two: Add water as you add organic materials to the pile so the materials are damp like a sponge, not soggy.

Step Three: Add green organic materials that are rich in nitrogen, like grass clippings. Continue to add equal amounts in weight of "green" and "brown" organic materials.

Step Four: A properly made pile will reach temperatures up to 160 degrees F. in a day or two. The pile will settle during the process that may last from a few weeks to a few months. Turning the pile after the first week will speed up the process. Compost is ready for use when it appears dark, brown, crumbly and will have an earthy smell. Compost added to the garden, landscape and lawn will provide benefits of plant growth, water retention and protects plants from pests and diseases.