Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
make sure they have not gone to seed). You can allow other garden
debris to decompose in the pile rather than having it go to the land-
fill. Having a compost pile is also a great way to keep your garden
clean. The resulting compost is perfect for using in your garden beds
or containers.
Smoothie Garden Solution
Shredded leaves will decompose much faster than whole ones (any
tree leaves will work for mulch). Rake fallen leaves into a pile and
then run your lawn mower over them. If you have a bag on your
mower, that's even better because you can then just empty it into
your compost pile or place the shredded leaves directly onto your
garden bed as mulch.
Making a Compost Pile
The best times to make a new compost pile is in the spring or in
the fall, as the heat of the summer or the cold in winter will not slow
down the decomposition process. A good-size pile will most likely
take from three to six months to decompose into good compost. The
final result should be a rich, dark-colored material that smells earthy
and easily crumbles in your hands.
To make your compost pile:
1.
Lay down four to six inches of carbon material-for example, straw,
shredded or dried leaves, small sticks, and corn or broccoli stalks
(chopped into smaller pieces or put through a chipping machine, if pos-
sible).
2.
Cover that with four to six inches of green material-for example, leaves,
grass, and kitchen waste.
3.
Add in a handful of organic fertilizer lime if you want.
