Build a Compost Pile

One of the easiest ways to reduce household trash as well as yard waste is to build a compost pile. Not only will you be sending less waste to the local land fill, but you will be providing yourself with rich, hearty organic matter with which to fortify your landscaping plants or garden vegetables. Composting, done correctly, is a win-win situation for the average home owner, and is very easy to do.

Step One: The Foundation

Everything of value needs a good foundation, and the compost pile is no exception to that rule. While simply making a pile of your compost is certainly an option, keeping it contained within some sort of bin, box or fencing material is neater and keeps the wind from spreading it about your property. However, this foundation need not be a major project, rather it can be quick, simple, and do it yourself friendly. A simple enclosure of wire mesh fencing, two to four feet high, will do, or one can use recycled pallets to construct a shallow box to corral that compost pile. Of course, if you prefer, you can purchase pre-made composting bins from most any garden supply store to house your compost heap.

Build a Compost Pile: Step Two

Layering is the key to the most successful composting, beginning with a layer of sticks, boards, or an old pallet to allow air to reach the bottom of your compost pile. The base should be at least 3 feet by 3 feet to ensure enough bulk to help protect the composting process from being affected by the weather. Then you are ready to begin layering your compost materials on top of that base.

For optimal composting, it is important to alternate layers of green materials with layers of brown compost material, striking the right chemical balance to feed the composting process. Green materials, such as grass clippings, withered garden plants, and vegetable scraps provide nitrogen to the composting process, while brown materials, such as dry leaves or old newspapers, provide carbon. These two chemicals, combined in proper proportions, help to break down the materials into the rich compost that is your end goal. Once you have added your layers of green and brown materials and mixed them a bit, a shovelful of garden soil or finished compost will help ensure that the proper microbes are in place to begin breaking down the compost material mixture.

Maintenance

Once you build a compost pile, some care and maintenance will be necessary to ensure that the materials break down efficiently. Your compost pile will require a bit of moisture to keep the process moving along, but just enough to make it feel damp, not soaking wet. Too much moisture can slow decomposition of the composting materials and produce unpleasant odors. Your compost should be turned once a week to ensure even decomposition and good air flow and keep the pile from becoming compacted. Oxygen is vital to the composting process, and keeping the pile loose will speed the composting process.

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