Monday, August 22, 2011

Composting At Home - Advice

By Steven Allen


So you have decided to start composting at home. That is a wonderful choice as it will cut down on the amount of refuse you are sending to the landfill.

Also it is a great way to save a few bucks on chemical fertilizer. The fact is that you want to stay away from chemicals as it is really not good for the soil long term.

Actually it is really simple, just pick a spot in your yard. Someplace out of site is usually best, Compost won't produce a smell but it can be tough on the eyes. After you choose your spot add a layer of sticks or some other course material. That way you will get good aeration from the bottom.

You can go to the store and buy a tumbler. There are many styles to choose from and this will quicken the process a little bit. Even the fastest tumbler there is takes about four to five weeks to produce compost. A bin on the ground will work just fine even though it does take a bit longer.

Add some of your kitchen waste this is called green matter. Old egg shells, fruit peels, coffee grounds and the filter, nut shells. Just about anything that is organic can go in the compost bin.

Next you will want to add some brown matter. This is lawn leaves, grass clippings, herbivore droppings. Such as horse, cow, chicken. Stay away from cat and dog droppings, to many chemicals.

You may want two start a second compost pile for yard plants. cat and dog feces will be great for this, just don't use on plants that grow food you intend to eat. Composting at home is a great idea that will save you a few bucks on fertilizer and growing your own produce will save you money at the grocery store.




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