Step-by-step guide to starting and maintaining a successful compost system. Includes what to compost, proper ratios, troubleshooting common problems, and how to use finished compost.
Composting is nature's way of recycling organic matter into a rich soil amendment that gardeners often call "black gold." By composting kitchen scraps and yard waste, you can reduce landfill waste while creating a valuable resource for your garden. This fact sheet will guide you through the process of starting and maintaining a successful compost system.
Successful composting relies on balancing four key elements:
Select a level, well-drained area with partial shade. Place your compost bin or pile where it's convenient to access from both your kitchen and garden.
Start with a 10-15cm layer of coarse materials like small branches or corn stalks to allow airflow from below.
Alternate layers of brown materials (carbon-rich) and green materials (nitrogen-rich) in a ratio of approximately 3:1 by volume.
Add water as needed to keep the pile as damp as a wrung-out sponge. In dry climates, you may need to water your pile regularly.
Every 1-2 weeks, use a garden fork to turn the materials, moving outside materials to the center. This adds oxygen and speeds decomposition.
Problem: Anaerobic decomposition due to too much moisture or green material.
Solution: Add more brown materials and turn the pile to increase aeration.
Problem: Insufficient nitrogen, too dry, or pile too small.
Solution: Add more green materials, moisten the pile, or increase the size of your compost pile.
Problem: Food scraps exposed or inappropriate materials added.
Solution: Bury food scraps in the center of the pile and cover with brown materials. Ensure meat and dairy are not added.
Compost is ready to use when it's dark brown, crumbly, and has an earthy smell. Depending on conditions and management, this can take anywhere from 3 months to a year.
Want to take this information with you?
Download PDF