What Is Composting?
Composting is a simple and effective way to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills while creating a beneficial soil amendment for lawns and gardens. It is a controlled, aerobic process that converts organic materials into finished compost. Properly made compost is dark, crumbly, and smells like fresh earth.
The most commonly composted materials are food scraps and yard waste, combined with moisture and good air circulation. When the balance is right, microorganisms break down these materials into a rich organic product that improves soil structure and fertility.
Composting Methods: Bins or Piles
Composting can be done using a bin composter or a traditional compost pile. Both methods work well when properly maintained.
A bin composter can be purchased or made using a heavy-duty plastic container that can withstand outdoor conditions. Containers should have numerous ¼-inch holes drilled throughout to allow for water drainage and air circulation. The bin should be elevated slightly off the ground using bricks or stones to prevent excess moisture buildup. Many pre-made composters come with stands that allow the bin to rotate, making turning easier.
A compost pile is another effective option. When building a pile, it helps to have two sides and a back to push materials against while turning. Many gardeners use cinder blocks for structure, leaving the front open to allow airflow. The pile is turned by moving materials from one side to the other.
How to Build a Compost Pile
When starting a compost pile or filling a bin, begin with a 4–6 inch layer of “brown” materials placed directly on the ground. Browns include dry leaves, twigs, wood chips, and perennial cuttings. This layer helps with airflow and drainage.
Next, add a 1–2 inch layer of “green” materials, such as food scraps or fresh yard waste. Continue alternating layers of browns and greens until the pile reaches about two feet tall.
Moisture is essential. The compost should remain damp but not wet, similar to the feel of a damp piece of cardboard. There should never be standing water in the pile.
Turning and Monitoring the Pile
After a few weeks, the compost pile should be turned using a fork or shovel. As the process continues, the center of the pile will begin to warm. This heat is generated by bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes, which break down organic material.
A properly functioning compost pile can reach temperatures above 130°F, helping speed decomposition. If the pile becomes too wet and turns anaerobic, it will stop heating and may develop unpleasant odors. Maintaining airflow and proper moisture prevents this issue.
How Long Composting Takes
Under normal conditions, composting takes three to five months to produce finished compost. Location plays a role in timing. Composters placed in partial sun often break down materials more quickly, while those in full shade may take longer. Heat supports microbial activity and speeds decomposition.
There are products available that can help accelerate the composting process such as, Espoma Compost Starter and Jobe’s Compost Accelerator. Compost starters and accelerators introduce beneficial microorganisms that help break down organic material more quickly.
What to Compost
Materials suitable for composting include:
-
Leaves
-
Lawn clippings
-
Vegetable and fruit scraps
-
Coffee grounds
-
Shredded newspaper or unglazed white office paper
-
Trimmed plant materials
-
Wood chips and bark
-
Shredded stems and twigs
-
Certain manures, including cow, horse, sheep, poultry, rabbit, and llama
What Not to Compost
Some materials should never be added to compost piles, as they can attract pests, create odors, or introduce disease. Avoid composting:
-
Meat or dairy scraps
-
Manures from cats, dogs, swine, or other carnivores
-
Glossy or color-printed magazine paper
-
Diseased plants
-
Plants treated with herbicides
Why Composting Matters
Composting is one of the most effective ways to improve soil health naturally. Finished compost adds organic matter, improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and supports beneficial soil organisms. Whether used in vegetable gardens, ornamental beds, or lawns, compost enriches soil and reduces reliance on synthetic inputs.
By composting at home, gardeners not only create a valuable soil amendment but also play a role in reducing landfill waste and supporting a more sustainable landscape.
