Waste Not, Want......Compost!

Composting is an easy way to add nutrient-rich humus to your garden soil. It's free, easy to make and good for the environment. Turning the compost every few weeks aerates the materials and helps speed the process.

The brown element of compost is often overlooked as autumn leaves, dry straw and wood chips may not always be available, but some type of dry material is necessary to allow oxygen to penetrate the pile and to aid in faster decomposition. Non glossy newspaper torn into strips, as well as paperboard boxes such as those containing cereal or crackers will provide plenty of dry carbon based materials.

Wood ash from the fireplace is another dry material that is added in thin layers.

Green materials, such as kitchen waste, grass clippings and plant material provide nitrogen.

The scrapings from the chicken's poop board each morning also add to the nitrogen mix, plus provide a convenient means to dispose of the droppings.

Add compost materials in layers, alternating moist and dry.
First, a thin layer of wood ash, followed by some kitchen scraps, board scrapings, and newspaper. Then some garden waste, including weeds and dead plants.

There are no hard and fast rules in making compost. Just add your materials in layers, be sure to include plenty of brown or dry materials, and turn occasionally. You may also need to add water if rain is scarce. Your garden will thank you by providing healthy, nourishing soil to grow in.