Compost is the heart of sustainable gardening. Composting turns scraps into nutritious soil, with help from microbes and other organisms. As an organic process, decomposition is integral to a healthy ecosystem.
Composting relies on a balance of ingredients.
Greens (Nitrogen-Rich): These provide nitrogen, fueling the decomposition process. Examples include:
Fruit and vegetable scraps
Coffee grounds (including paper filters)
Grass clippings (no pesticides)
Fresh leaves
Browns (Carbon-Rich): These provide carbon, which helps with aeration and balances the nitrogen. Examples include:
Dry leaves
Twigs and small branches
Shredded paper and cardboard (non-glossy)
Straw
Sawdust (from untreated wood
Water: Moisture is important for the microorganisms breaking down the organic matter. The compost pile should feel like a damp sponge. 40-60% moisture is optimal for decomposition.
Air: Turning the pile regularly with a pitchfork or other pronged implement introduces air.
Composting Methods
Open Pile Composting: This is the simplest method. Pile materials in a designated area in the yard. It needs regular turning for aeration.
Compost Bin: A compost bin helps contain the pile and often has features to improve aeration and temperature control. For the handy, it's easy to make at home with wood slats and chicken wire.
Tumbler Composter: Rotating bins reduce physical labor and speed up the composting process.
Vermicomposting (Worm Composting): This method uses worms to break down organic matter, ideal for indoor composting and smaller spaces.
Composting Process
Layer Materials: Begin with a layer of coarse brown materials, like small branches or straw, for airflow. Alternate layers of green and brown materials with a ratio of 2 parts brown to 1 part green.
Add Water: Moisten the pile regularly with non-chlorinated water, ensuring it's damp but not soggy.
Turn the Pile: Turn the compost pile every few days to a week, especially during initial active decomposition phase. This adds oxygen and speeds decomposition as microorganisms reduce organic matter more efficiently.
During composting, organic acids are neutralized. Mature compost has a healthy pH from 6 to 8. In anaerobic conditions, organic acids can build up instead of decomposing. Aeration nullifies this threat.
Check the pile regularly. If it's too dry, add water. If it smells bad (like ammonia), it may need more browns.
Monitor moisture content. It should be damp but not wet. If it's too dry, add water or more green matter. If too wet, mix in more brown materials to soak up excess moisture.
The Joy of Humus
After several weeks or months, depending on the method and materials,, compost will be ready. Full decomposition can take up to a year in some cases. Compost should be dark and crumbly with a pleasant earthy smell.
This nutrient-dense product is humus. It can be used to enrich garden beds, improve potted plants, or mix into seed-starting soils.
Troubleshooting
Smell: A foul odor indicates an imbalance. Too much nitrogen (greens) can cause an ammonia smell, while a sour smell can mean it's too wet and anaerobic.
Slow Decomposition: Ensure the pile is moist enough and that you're turning it regularly. Adding more greens can also speed up the process.
Pests: Cover food scraps with browns to deter pests.
What Not to Compost
Meat, bones and dairy products
Oil and fat
Diseased plants
Pesticide-treated grass clippings
Pet waste has compounds detrimental to plant growth
Using Compost
Soil Amendment: Mix compost into garden beds to improve soil structure and fertility.
Top Dressing: Spread a thin layer of compost around plants as a natural fertilizer.
Potting Mix: Add compost to potting mix for container gardening.
Lawn Care: Use compost as a top dressing for the lawn to improve soil health and promote robust grass growth.
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