Tips for Composting

To start composting, choose an appropriate location in your yard that is convenient to access but also away from your home. Make sure to include a mix of “green” (nitrogen-rich) and “brown” (carbon-rich) materials in your compost pile. Example of green materials are fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings, while brown materials include leaves, straw, and shredded cardboard. It’s important to turn the compost regularly to aerate it and facilitate decomposition. Also, keep your compost pile moist but not soggy, as this will help the materials break down faster. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily foods to your compost as these can attract pests. Once your compost has turned into a rich, dark, crumbly material, it is ready to be used in your garden as a nutrient-rich soil amendment.