Composting–Getting Started

What does it take to get started?

All you need to compost is enthusiasm, yard or food waste (except meat or dairy products), and some space. Compost piles don't need to be enclosed, although many people use a bin or similar enclosure. Compost bins can be purchased, or you can easily construct one with common materials such as chicken wire, snow fencing, lumber or used pallets. Other tools that come in handy for composting are a garden hose, wheelbarrow and common garden tools.

Organic materials should be mixed, adding water as needed so that the materials feel like a moist, wrung-out sponge. The compost pile should be turned after a few weeks so that the outside layers are exchanged with the center of the pile. Turn compost piles about once a month, except in cold winter conditions. Water can be added during turning, if necessary

What to Avoid

While many yard wastes and kitchen scraps can be successfully composted, some materials should be kept out of the compost pile. Check with your local municipality for specific items which may be prohibited.

Don't compost

• Diseased plants or leaves
• Persistent weeds (poison ivy, multiflora rose, bindweed, quackgrass, etc.)
• Human or pet feces.
• Meat, dairy products and kitchen vegetables cooked with animal fats.
• Plants that have gone to seed.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Solution
Compost is too wet and soggy	Turn and add dry material; cover compost
Compost is dry and appears dusty	Turn and water; shade compost
Compost is cool to the touch	Turn and add high nitrogen "green" materials