How to Make Your Own Compost
Compost is the essential ingredient for developing fertile soil affordably. You only need garden and kitchen waste, and a few steps to make the organic waste decompose. The process is easy and the only problem you might encounter is finding adequate organic material that can make enough compost for larger gardens.
Adding compost to a garden supplies nutrients to the soil, and at the same time produces a slow release of minerals that crops need. Compost also improves the soil structure, enables the soil to hold moisture, and increases friability. The benefits of compost are many, so let’s take a look at how to make your own.
Begin With A Container
You will need either a stationary or rotating compost bin to hold the compost ingredients together. Once the ingredients are put together, the beneficial bacteria that breaks down plant matter will heat up and work properly. A well-designed compost bin (like a compost tumbler) retains heat and moisture, hence leading to quicker results.
Compost tumblers are easy to turn compost bins that catalyse the process through heat retention and frequent oxygen infusions. When selecting a compost tumbler, keep in mind the amount of plant matter you have, the size of your yard and how soon you will need the compost.
When using a stationary bin, you can place the organic matter in a sunny location to ensure it receives and maintains as much heat as possible. You can also do the same with a rotating bin. Placing the compost pile in the shade will not stop decomposition from taking place, but it will decompose slower.
Let The Ingredients Mix Well
A pile that does not require high maintenance is typically a compost of green and brown plant matter, as well as some moisture to ensure the good bacteria keep working. Wood chips, dry leaves, and shredded newspaper are perfect for the brown elements. Grass clippings and kitchen waste, on the other hand, are ideals for the green add-ins.
If you are using a simple container, it is best to begin heaping the compost ingredients right on the soil/ground. You should start with chunky matter like woody stems or small branches on the bottom for perfect airflow.
Each time you add green matter, add some brown matter as well to develop air pockets and maintain a good moisture balance. It is also a good idea to provide your new pile with a jump-start to initiate the process. You can also use activators if you do not want to mix the compost.
Take Care Of The Compost
It is easy to care of a compost pile, but just a little more effort can make a big difference. It is good to add compost matter regularly so that the bacteria can always have fresh food and enough insulation in order to maintain warmth during the process.
You can also turn the pile weekly or after every two weeks to ensure that all the materials are mixed and working together. After mixing, check the compost to ensure it has the correct amount of moisture. After a few weeks or months, you will end up with a dark and crumbly soil that has an earthy aroma.
