We know why composting is important and what we can compost, but how do you start your own outdoor compost station?
To start, decide how much you are composting and if you need a bin. Benefits of composting with a bin is that it will keep it neat in your back yard and help to keep critters away. If you do choose a bin, consider the size of the container for how big of a space you’ll need.
Next is location, location, location. Find an area that is well-drained. If you live in the south, you may want to consider a shady spot so the moisture in the pile doesn’t evaporate too quickly. In the north, you may want to consider a sunny area since it typically is cooler weather in the spring and fall.
Remember to consider the proximity to your house and garden. Since you will more than likely be making at least one trip (if not more) to it daily you will want it to be close enough to the house, but also close enough so you don’t have to make long trips to your garden.
Once you have decided what and where – it is time to start composting! Start off by having the pile touching the ground.
- On the first layer, place brown items such as leaves, twigs, cardboard (torn up).
- Then add green materials, such as food wastes or grass. Each layer should be around 5 inches, give or take.
- Keep repeating layers until you run out.
- Once you’ve added the layers, keep the materials wet, but not soaking wet.
- Turn your pile to dry and mix the materials together for breaking down.
As time goes and the materials start to break down, you’ll notice the components of it starting to change. Once the materials look and smell like dark dirt as opposed to the items you originally started with, that is when it is ready to be used for your garden.