Composting is a natural process. Organic materials such as leaves, grass, and vegetable scraps are broken down by microorganisms, forming a rich soil-like substance called compost or humus.
Keys to successful home composting
Organic materials: A good mix consists of three parts "browns" (materials such as dead leaves that are high in carbon) and one part "greens" (such as fresh grass clippings and garden prunings that are high in nitrogen).
Moisture: Composting materials should feel moist but not overly soggy.
Temperature: Compost should feel warm to the touch except in the cold winter months.
Air: To prevent unpleasant odors that can occur when materials decompose without oxygen, compost should be turned regularly to ensure that air is reaching the center of the pile.
| High Carbon "Browns | High Nitrogen "Greens" | Sources of Composting Organisms |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves | Grass | Old Compost |
| Dead Plants | Green Weeds | Soil |
| Straw | Manure | Cow Manure |
| Shredded Paper | Alfalfa or Clover | Chicken Manure |
| Shredded Twigs | Seaweed or Pond Algae | Horse Manure |
| Pine Needles | Non-Meat and Non-Dairy Kitchen Scraps | Commercially Available Composting "Starters" |
| Sawdust from Untreated Wood | Old Compost |
