How to Start a Compost Pile

Recycling is growing in popularity. Aluminum cans, newspapers, even diapers are all candidates for reuse.

Compost piles give gardeners a chance to recycle garden waste. Compost, as a replacement for peat moss, improves soil structure, which aids moisture retention while promoting good drainage. It also enriches the soil with nutrients.

Almost any organic material can be used to start a compost pile, but be cautious when using left over food or garbage that can attract rats, insects and/or other pests. Weeds, grass clippings and old garden plants work best. Besides, putting weeds to good use provides generous consolation after the havoc they may have caused last season.

A compost pile should be kept above ground at a well-drained location. The site should be close enough to the garden for convenience, but not so close to be an eyesore or a hindrance during gardening activities.

When piling a compost heap, do not pack the organic matter too tightly together because air circulation is necessary for proper decomposition. As the material begins to decompose, turn the pile approximately every 10 to 14 days to expose more material to the air. Adding a ventilation shaft aids aeration.

The compost pile should be kept moist at all times, but not waterlogged. Air and moisture are critical for decomposing fresh organic matter to humus.

For maximum decomposition, nitrogen and nutrients should be added to the compost pile each time it is turned. Some nutrients are found in the compost naturally, but generally not in quantities large enough for rapid decomposition. To supplement the nutrient level, an all-purpose organic or chemical fertilizer should be sprinkled over each layer or material added to the heap.

When the pile is started, it is necessary to add some garden soil. Microorganisms in the soil aid the decomposition process.

Another way to speed decomposition is to place the organic material through a soil shredder. This reduces the size of the material being composted and presents more surface area to the air thereby increasing the rate of decomposition. A soil shredder can be found at your local garden center.

Compostable materials also deteriorate more rapidly when organic material is greener and the air temperature is warmer. In warm weather, organic material should be turned at least every two to three weeks and will decompose in about three months.

Compost piles can be contained in areas the minimum size of three feet by three feet, and three feet high. Others are larger and have more than one compartment for the different stages of decomposition. These stages include fresh material, decomposing vegetation, and finished humus. Some can be purchased ready made, but most people construct them out of wire mesh, railroad ties, cement blocks or wood plates stood on edge. Make sure the bin has a trap door near the bottom so the finished humus can be easily removed.

Start a compost pile this season and recycle your garden and grass clippings and leaves to good future use.