How to Make a Compost Pile

The best way to start a compost pile is to build a mound of yard waste. The best type of yard waste to use is leaves and yard clippings such as grass cuttings. Just make sure that the compost is a nice mix of brown waste (soil and debris) and green waste (leaves and grass.) If you don’t disturb this type of pile then you should have some fresh compost when you turn the compost heap over at the end of six months.

If your pile starts getting big or looking unsightly you can loosely roll six feet or so of stiff wire mesh fencing. This type of fencing is also known as hardware cloth. However this is not necessary if your compost heap is out of sight. The best site to locate your compost heap is so that it is a little bit hidden so odors and the sight of garbage doesn’t offend you or others. You can also buy plastic composters or build one out of wood to conceal your compost heap.

You should start turning over your compost pile after it has been in your yard about a week. It is at this point you can also start adding such enriching waste as coffee grounds, eggshells and produce matters.

If all goes well you should have nutrient rich compost in about two months. You will know your compost is ready when you start to turn it over with a spade or pitchfork and cannot detect any hard components. Compost that is ready has a crumbly brown texture and does not have an unpleasant odor.