Why you want to compost in the winter The act of composting means to strategicallyspeed up the decomposition processthat would usually take years, with the ultimate goal of improving soil quality. Composting in the winter is a great way to prepare for spring and summer gardening. Particularly fo...
Anytime you do yard chores, collect the debris in a bucket and dump it into the compost bin. This forms the "brown layer," which provides lots of the nitrogen necessary for the composting process. Word to the wise: Weeds will technically break down to become compost, but they are tough...
When I first started composting on my own, I had tons of questions. I got hung up on what I was doing wrong instead of what I was doing right. Composting is a science and an art, so you’re not going to nail it on your first try. There is a lot to learn and it’s okay to...
Your compost pile should start cooking within a week or so. Check the temperature of the pile with a compost thermometer or an old kitchen thermometer. A temperature of 110°F to 140°F (43°C to 60°C) is desirable. If you have no heat or insufficient heat, add nitrogen in the form...
That also means it’s time to start prepping your garden for the new growing season. If you were able to keep your compost pile going all winter, or you have some leftover finished compost, that will certainly help nourish your garden. The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut...
While most home composting often done in bins or large containers, it can also be done in piles. Hot composting is a good way to break down the materials like fruit and vegetable scraps or other food scraps faster so they won’t attract pests. It’s the fastest way to turn your waste...
Mix everything together in a compost heap, bin, or tumbler. Add water and air on a regular basis. Despite the steps being rather simple, there are quite a few questions that can arise during composting. Whenever doubts arise, its reassuring to remember that organic materials will all eventual...
When to Compost Composting schedules often differ due to regional weather conditions. If you suffer cold winters in your area, you are going to want to start your pile in the spring. However, If you have a very large pile, it is possible to create warm enough conditions for the heat lovi...
What you need to start composting Compost bin Kitchen scraps Natural yard scraps, like leaves and grass clippings A pitchfork, shovel, or a garden tool to use for mixing and turning the pile of compost Step 1: Choose your method: Outdoor vs. indoor First, evaluate whether indoor or outdo...
Death is everywhere in a garden, all year round, but it makes rebirth possible. A lot of plants keep going. Winter can also be a good time to reexamine your own personal battles against climate change. We can start or continue composting. And we can research services, products and methods...