How To Make Compost
Getting started composting can be confusing if you have never previously undertaken this type of activity. Learning how to make compost can give you the knowledge that you need to get started and enjoying the benefits as quickly as possible.
One of the first things that you need to know about how to make compost is that there are actually three different phases of composting. These phases are stockpiling, composting and then curing. Understanding stockpiling is essential to learning how to make compost.
Many people new to the idea of composting make the mistake of simply filling their compost bin with whatever organic material they may have. While you could do this, the results will not be as good as stockpiling. Stockpiling involves collecting materials and then waiting until you have a sufficient batch of materials to begin your first compost. A similar method of learning how to compost allows you to get started using layers. If you choose not to do this then you will need to turn the mixture later in order to thoroughly mix it. Stockpiling avoids the need to turn the mixture later.
When you stockpile your materials you will need to separate the different materials. Make sure that you keep an area separate that will include such organic material as leaves, grass clippings and other forms of yard debris. Remember that you need to avoid adding in large branches and pieces of wood when learning how to make compost. It can take an extremely long time for such large pieces to decompose and slow down the entire process. If you do have large pieces, try to run them through a chipper first.
To begin to make compost, you will need to start with a layer of yard debris such as grass clippings. You can also add in types of kitchen waste such as lettuce leaves, eggshells, banana peels, coffee grounds, apple cores, etc. Continue adding materials until you have accumulated a layer that is approximately six inches deep. The next step is to cover that layer with another layer of either finished compost or manure that is about three or four inches deep. Alternate the different layers of organic mixture with mature or finished compost until you have a mound that is approximately three feet in height. This size pile will be enough to generate the proper heat to begin composting properly. Before you know it, you will have a wonderfully rich potting soil that is great for gardening.