All organic matter eventually decomposes. Composting speeds the process by providing an ideal environment for bacteria and other decomposing microorganisms.
The final product, humus or compost, looks and feels like fertile garden soil. This dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling stuff works wonders on all kinds of soil and provides vital nutrients to help plants grow and look better.
Decomposing organisms consist of bacteria, fungi, and larger organisms such as worms, sow bugs, nematodes, and numerous others.
Decomposing organisms need four key elements to thrive: nitrogen, carbon, moisture, and oxygen.
For best results, mix materials high in nitrogen (such as clover, fresh grass clippings, and livestock manure) and those high in carbon (such as dried leaves and twigs).
If there is not a good supply of nitrogen-rich material, a handful of general lawn fertilizer will help the nitrogen-carbon ratio.
Moisture is provided by rain, but you may need to water or cover the pile to keep it damp. Also be careful not to saturate the pile, which will force out the oxygen.
Turning or mixing the pile provides oxygen. Frequent turning yields faster decomposition.
Getting Started
Many materials can be added to a compost pile, including leaves, grass clippings, straw, woody brush, vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee grounds, livestock manure, sawdust, and shredded paper.
Do not use diseased plants, meat scraps that may attract animals, and dog or cat manure which can carry disease.
Composting can be as simple or as involved as you would like, and depends on how much yard waste you have, how fast you want results, and the effort you are willing to invest.
Much of this article comes courtesy of the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service.
