or active, compost pile. It’s called “hot” because it can reach an internal temperature of up to 160°F (71°C) and “active” because it destroys—essentially by cooking—weed seeds and disease-causing organisms. A temperature of about 140°F (60°C) is what you should aim for in...
EVEN AFTER 40 YEARS of composting, “I find the whole process so fascinating,” says Lee. “I never cease to be amazed by it.” His key tools for success: A compost thermometer–about 18 inches long—to test the internal temperature of each heap. Lee’s compost gets to 140-160ish deg...
These are the least labor-intensive of the composting methods, but are really only suitable for small-scale gardens (such as herb gardens, pot or bucket gardens, etc.) rather than for family-sized garden plots. What Not to Compost Anything organic can be composted. With that in mind, ...
Composting doesn't have to be complicated. Here, experts list the ingredients and step-by-step instructions on how to make your own right at home, quickly.
You have to make sure your compost pile gets: Plenty of air: Turn it every four to seven days, especially at first. Adequate water: It should be moist, but not soaking wet; give it a spray weekly. Proper mix of carbon to nitrogen: the ratio should be about 30:1. Small pieces: ...
HEALTHY GARDENS start with healthy soil. And there's no better ingredient than compost, whether you till it into beds or use it as mulch. Ned Conwell is up to his elbows in the stuff, both as a farmer and as a teacher: He uses as much as he can make at Blue House Farm, a ...
Leaf mulch –This term generally refers to freshly fallen or shredded leaves used as a mulch in gardens. In this context, “leaf mulch” typically describes the less decomposed leaves. Leaf mold (or leaf mould)– This term usually refers to partially decomposed or well-rotted leaves that have...
The benefits of composting extend beyond just waste reduction. When applied to soil, compost helps retain water, reducing the need for irrigation and making it a boon for both large-scale farms and home gardens. It also introduces essential nutrients and beneficial microorganisms to the soil, prom...
The simple, basic truth about learning how to make compost is that the best fertilizer is free. You don’t need to be a scientist or a tireless laborer to get it. Without studying too often, worrying too much, or working too hard, I make fine compost, grow successful gardens, and I ...
Once a week, you can take your bin to your community compost center to empty it out. Compost created at the community bins often goes to parks, gardens and other public areas where you and those around you can enjoy the fruits of your labor!