Build a Compost Pile

There are four elements that contribute to successful composting, those elements are:

• Organic matter,
• moisture,
• and temperature.

Let’s elaborate on these elements.

Organic matter is composed of leaves, organic garden garbage, and kitchen waste. The matter you use in your compost is classified as either “browns” or “greens”. The browns are usually dry materials such as dead leaves, bark, branches, and twigs. These materials are rich in carbon. Greens, on the other hand, are made up of fresh grass clippings, leafy vegetables, and garden trimmings – all of which are rich in nitrogen. In composting, the ideal ratio between ‘browns’ and ‘greens’ is 30:1. It is the chemical reaction between the brown carbon-rich matter and the green nitrogen-rich matter that is essential to the decomposing process.

Moisture is another important element of your compost bin. Your compost needs moisture in order start the decomposing process. Ideally, a compost pit should feel moist to the touch, but it should not be soggy or dripping. Too much moisture lowers the temperature of the pile, promotes good airflow, and makes the compost smell bad.

The warmth generated by your compost signifies that breakdown is actively occurring – this is where temperature control comes in. Temperature levels also have to be maintained, so that harmful bacteria is eliminated and insects are prevented from swarming your pile. Remember that except during winter, compost should feel warm to the touch.

Carbon-Nitrogen Ratio

The carbon-nitrogen ratio, also known as the C/N ratio is a Key factor in composting success. The microorganisms responsible for the break down of organic matter need a certain amount of carbon and nitrogen.

As mentioned earlier, carbon is provided by the ‘browns’ in your compost, and nitrogen is supplied by the ‘greens’. Too much of the ‘browns’ and your compost bin will not decompose fast enough; too much of the ‘greens’ and your compost would start to stink. The ideal ratio between the two is 30:1.

Now, I know how intimidating numbers can be. Don’t worry, though, there’s a simple rule of thumb you can follow. Remember that ‘greens’ on their own have an average C/N ratio of 20:1. All you have to do is supplement that by doubling up on your ‘browns’. Approximately, your compost should be 60% ‘browns’ and 40% ‘greens’.

Choosing Your Compost Bin

The perfect compost bin is one that is wide enough to facilitate turning and narrow enough to allow air to get into the middle of the pile. You should also think about how much space you have to work with and how much compost you want to have.

Freestanding Compost Piles

Freestanding compost piles are is the easiest type of compost pile to make. It is also the cheapest because it does not require any containing units. Freestanding piles, however, have a downside. When composting in this manner, the compost is not protected from the elements and can loose heat easily. Then again, freestanding piles are easier to aerate because they are not confined. Consider the weather in your area when planning a freestanding compost pile.

Compost Bin

A single compost bin is another easy way to store compost. It can be made up of wood frames or wire fencing. A good compost bin should be no bigger than 3 feet x 3 feet wide in order to make sure that air reaches the center of the bin. It should also be at least 3 feet tall to accommodate enough compost for your garden.

Ideally, the compost bin of your choice should give you easy access to the compost. You have two options in this area. Either pick one which is lightweight enough to allow you to pour the compost out, or something that you can easily deconstruct and reassemble so you can periodically turn your compost.

Two-Bin or Three-Bin Composting Units

The multiple-bin composting unit is often the choice of most gardeners who have the space for it. It is made up of open three-walled chambers that can store the compost in different stages of decomposition. Alternatively, some gardeners use the three-bin system to hold the ‘browns’ in one bin, the ‘greens’ in another, and using the third bin to mix up those materials in the right proportion. These units may be made of cinder block, wood and wire, or of any available material.