DIY Compost Heap
- 1). Choose a spot outdoors that is dry and in a shaded area, but close to a water source such as a garden hose. It's important to be able to moisten your compost heap as necessary, but you will want to avoid placing it in an area where runoff from rainstorms will turn it into a soggy mess.
- 2). Start your compost heap by layering some clean soil with grass clippings, leaves and other biodegradable materials such as vegetables, fruit, cardboard, paper, dryer lint, coffee grounds and tea bags. Leave out items such as dairy products, meat and pet waste to keep the compost free of insects, rodents and unpleasant odors. Make sure that everything you introduce into the compost heap has been shredded into small bits; this will help speed up the decomposition process.
- 3). Add more material to the compost heap as you accumulate it. Moisten all materials and keep the compost heap covered with a tarp to hold in moisture. The material will take much longer to decompose if the heap is allowed to dry out.
- 4). Turn the compost heap with a shovel or pitchfork every one to two weeks. Take material from the edges and move to the middle; this will help distribute moisture and air so the compost will decompose evenly.
- 5). Check the bottom of the compost heap periodically. Depending on the weather conditions in your area, compost can be ready for use in two months to two years. You will know it's ready when the material at the bottom of the heap has a soil-like texture and a rich, dark brown color.
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