How to Compost

Introduction

Composting is a simple and eco-friendly way to recycle food scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Whether you're an experienced gardener or new to composting, learning how to compost is easy and can be done on a small scale in your own backyard or on a larger scale in community gardens or commercial operations. In this section, we will explore the basics of how to compost, including what materials to compost, how to create and maintain a compost pile, and how to use compost in your garden. By following these simple steps, you can reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote a healthy and sustainable environment while creating a valuable resource for your garden or landscape. So let's get started and learn how to compost!

How to Compost

There are lots of ways to compost.   Here we will explore some popular composting methods that offer a range of approaches to transform organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. Each method has its own set of instructions, benefits, and considerations. By familiarizing yourself with these options, you can choose the composting method that aligns with your specific needs, available space, and waste materials. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced composter, there's something here for everyone. So let's dive into the composting options and discover the exciting possibilities for turning waste into valuable resources.

Traditional Compost Pile

Instructions: Create a pile of organic materials, including yard waste and kitchen scraps. Turn the pile regularly to aid decomposition.

Benefits: Easy and cost-effective, utilizes a variety of materials, produces nutrient-rich compost.

Drawbacks: May attract animals if food scraps like meat are added.

Mitigation: Avoid adding food scraps that can attract animals. Use a compost bin or fencing to keep animals out if necessary.

Compost Bin

Instructions: Use a compost bin or container to hold organic materials. Layer green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials, and occasionally turn or mix the contents.

Benefits: Neat and organized, controls odor, retains heat for faster decomposition.

Drawbacks: Limited capacity, may require regular turning for optimal results.

Mitigation: Consider using multiple bins or rotating systems to accommodate larger quantities of compostable material.

Trench Composting

Instructions: Dig a trench in the garden and bury organic waste, covering it with soil.

Benefits: Integrates composting directly into the garden, improves soil fertility, no need for additional composting space.

Drawbacks: Limited to garden areas, can attract pests if not buried deep enough.

Mitigation: Bury waste deep enough to deter pests, avoid adding materials that can attract them.

Compost Tumbler

Instructions: Fill a rotating drum or bin with organic waste, and turn it regularly to aerate and mix the contents.

Benefits: Easy turning and mixing, faster decomposition, minimal odor.

Drawbacks: Limited capacity, may require physical effort to turn.

Mitigation: Consider purchasing a tumbler with a larger capacity, or use multiple tumblers if needed.

Sheet Composting

Instructions: Layer organic materials directly on the ground or garden bed, and allow them to decompose in place.

Benefits: No need for turning or transferring compost, improves soil structure and moisture retention.

Drawbacks: Slow decomposition compared to other methods.

Mitigation: Chop or shred materials to accelerate decomposition. Combine with other composting methods for faster results.

Compost Pile with Aerated Static Pile (ASP) System

Instructions: Build a compost pile and introduce aeration pipes to facilitate airflow. Monitor and adjust moisture levels as needed.

Benefits: Accelerated decomposition, suitable for larger volumes of organic waste.

Drawbacks: Requires initial setup and monitoring of aeration system.

Mitigation: Ensure proper placement and maintenance of aeration pipes. Monitor moisture levels regularly.

Composting in Raised Beds

Instructions: Create raised garden beds with a composting layer at the bottom. Add organic waste directly into the beds, allowing it to decompose and enrich the soil.

Benefits: Utilizes composting while simultaneously growing plants, improves soil fertility.

Drawbacks: Limited to garden areas with raised beds.

Mitigation: Use a combination of composting methods to manage a broader range of organic waste.

Community or Municipal Composting

Instructions: Participate in community or municipal composting programs. Typically, organic waste is collected and processed at a larger scale.

Benefits: Diverts organic waste from landfills, utilizes specialized equipment and processes, often produces high-quality compost.

Drawbacks: Limited to areas with established composting programs, may require membership or fees.

Mitigation: Engage with local authorities or community organizations to support or initiate composting programs in your area.

Machine Composters

A variety of brands offer indoor and mechanized composting units. 

These generally use electricity and can sit on your kitchen counter or similar indoor locations. The internal turning mechanism supposedly helps foods break up faster, without creating indoor odor.

Most people say these are not needed and traditional composting methods are fine, but this may be a good solution for people with mobility, strength, or energy constraints.

There are also some that range into the industrial size.

Remember, regardless of the composting method chosen, it's important to maintain the right balance of green and brown materials, monitor moisture levels, and turn or aerate the compost as needed to ensure proper decomposition.


What Materials to Compost

Air

Brown Materials

Green Materials

Water

Using Compost in the Garden

Compost Tea

Composting Equipment & Supplies

The following organizations and businesses offer a variety of items that can help you compost inside or out. 

Africa

South Africa

Grants & Funding

Oceana

Australia

Western Australia