How to Compost
April showers bring May flowers , and so does some good compost! As we get our gardens going this spring, we thought we would revisit composting again this Waste Not Wednesday. The task may seem daunting, but after you set up your pile, it’s a low-maintenance process with a huge return.
What is compost anyway? The EPA defines compost as a “nutrient-rich soil amendment or mulch” derived from the controlled, natural decomposition of organic material. Think homemade fertilizer!
To compost in your backyard, you can create a pile or use a bin. Aim for a space with good drainage and near a water source, and know that the process is pretty smelly (so don’t put it near your home or against a fence). Your pile should include a good balance of “browns” (dry leaves, twigs, stalks), “greens” (food scraps, grass clippings), water and air. Check online for a complete list of what you should and should not compost in your backyard, but in general, DO compost veggie scraps, coffee grounds, plant clippings and paper, but DO NOT compost meat, dairy, or plastic (including stickers, glossy paper, etc.). If something is labeled “compostable,” make sure it is not just commercially compostable.
Before building your pile, make sure you have a method to collect your browns and greens, including a container for food scraps if needed. Once you have enough material, you’ll want to start with a 4-6 inch layer of bulky browns (like wood chips) to allow for air flow, then layer greens and browns like lasagna, adding a little water to moisten the pile if needed. Always add 2-3 times the amount of browns as greens, and always cover food scraps with browns by 4-8 inches on top.
To maintain your pile, you should occasionally turn the outside of the pile inward by using a garden fork, and add material and moisture as needed (keep damp but not soaked). The middle of the pile will get hot as it creates the compost. Once it cools again and there are no visible food scraps, let the compost cure for at least four weeks before harvesting.
Once you get the hang of composting, it can be a very rewarding process that reduces food and paper waste and keeps your garden and soil healthy year after year!