Make A Compose Pile

You have probably heard of compose piles, but do you know what they are and how they are created? If not, this article is for you. We will share some of the basic information that you need in order to begin your own compose pile as well as some tips to help you get started.

In general, composting is nothing more complicated than turning old leaves, grass clippings, plant trimmings, and other waste products into what can be called a very rich potting soil. Once the process is complete, this compose soil can be used in growing all kinds of different plants, flowers, and vegetables in your garden.

A side benefit to making your own compose is that it helps reduce or even eliminate waste that can find its way to landfills. Composting is a very green thing to do these days as it helps to reduce the amount of waste that we are putting into the environment. It also makes a fantastic fertilizer which happens to end up being nearly free.

Making compose is easy. In order to get started you will need a few items and a place to locate your compose pile. Many homeowners prefer to use a compose bin for storing the materials, and that is an excellent option if you choose to go that way.

Some types of materials that you can use for compose include: unused food, old straw, hay, wood ashes from the chimney or fireplace, manure from farm animals, garden refuse such as old plants and clippings.

The process goes like this: Once you have the compose bin located you will add certain organic materials to the bin as you get them. The compose bin is also where you mix your materials. It is important that you place the bin on a flat surface that has good drainage. Do this early on as it will become much heavier and harder to move as you add material to it.

It is also a good idea to place the bin in a place where you can easily get water to it. Adding water is an important and frequent step to composing. This can be done with a garden hose.

You want to put your materials into the bin in layers. For example, layer your old leaves, grass clippings, plant trimmings, manure, and soiled foods one layer at a time. Do not layer more than 8 to 10 inches at a time. If you wish, you can shred your material which will hasten its breakdown.

After layering, cover the mixture with about one inch of soil. This helps to introduce bacteria into the mixture and will speed up the decomposition process.

Once you have done this, lightly water the entire top of the mixture. Do not over water. You want to ensure that you add more water every time you add another layer of material to the bin.

About twice a month, use a pitch fork and turn the material inside the bin. This introduces oxygen to the materials and helps speed things along.

It will take between two and four months for the mixture to complete the process to the point where you can use it. Be patient.

Important Tips: Make sure you add water when you are supposed to, especially during the summer months. You do not want it dry out. You can buy compose starters if you wish to hasten the process, but these are not needed if you use soil as mentioned above.