How to Build Home Compost
- 1). Identify a level area with good drainage and access to water. Do not place the pile against a fence or buildings. Avoid direct sunlight and areas subjected to wind. Avoid placing your home compost pile under a roof eave or rain spout.
- 2). Build the pile 4 feet square and 4 feet in height. Layer the collected brown and green materials, beginning with a brown layer. Make each layer 3 to 4 inches thick.
- 3). Water thoroughly after each layer until the pile is moist but not soaked. Water allows the decomposition process to begin.
- 4). Continue to add to the pile as waste materials become available. Moisten it with each addition. Aerate the pile occasionally by lifting up the top layers of material with a pitchfork or shovel. The additional oxygen introduced into the compost speeds decay.
- 5). Harvest compost as it turns dark brown and crumbly at the bottom of the pile. Compost is ready in 3 to 6 months.
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