Composting in your backyard is easy, fun and useful.
Composting breaks down your household organic materials into a rich new soil. It’s a great way to reduce your household waste. Your waste can go towards creating new life materials rather than going to the landfill. With composting, you can easily divert 20% of your household waste from the landfill to your garden, houseplants or lawn!
You can buy a composter at any home hardware retailer, but you can also make one easily. Check out these easy DIY projects that will give you an effective composter!
When it comes to composting, there is a simple recipe to follow:
Greens + Browns + Water + Air = Compost
Browns are materials that are high in carbon, like dried leaves and shredded paper. Greens are materials that are high in nitrogen, like grass clippings and vegetables. Along with the right amount of water and air, you end up with some quality compost soil.
Ok! I want to compost! What do I need to do to start?
First Step Find a spot and install/construct your composter
Find a suitable spot in your yard for your composter. You are looking for a sunny area that is level, has good drainage and is accessible year round.
Second Step Make your base layer
Add a base layer of twigs and very small branches in the bottom of your composter. This will let some air to enter your compost and allow it to drain.
Third Step Add in layers
Add materials in alternating layers. The ideal mix for a composter is 1 part Browns to 2 parts greens. If you have some compost that has already been made, add a layer to introduce the necessary microorganisms needed to make your composter work. Remember: A properly working composter does not emit odours!
Fourth Step Mix it up!
Turn and moisten your compost regularly to increase air circulation in your compost pile. Remember, your compost needs oxygen present to fuel the microorganisms and break down the composting materials. Your compost pile should also be kept moist, like a damp sponge. If it looks dry, water it!
Compost These Items | DO NOT Compost These Items | Tips for ideal composts! |
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Troubleshoot Problems with your composter
My compost has a bad odour! |
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My composter’s process seems slow or the compost pile will not heat up! |
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My compost is too wet! |
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My compost pile attracts animals or insect pests! |
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More information on Composting