Seven
Steps
to Making Compost
On average, a backyard composter diverts 500 lb of food and green
waste per year from landfill disposal. The resulting compost makes
a wonderful, homemade natural garden nutrient.
1. Buy or build a
rodent-resistant bin.
2. Locate compost bin on
a well-drained, level soil.
3. Layer the bottom few inches with coarse organic material such as
straw or prunings.
4. Chop or cut compost material into small pieces.
5. Dig green nitrogen-rich materials in the centre and cover with
brown carbon-rich material. Add materials in layers, for example grass
clippings, straw, kitchen scraps, etc.
6. Aerate the material once a week using a turning tool like a pitchfork
or stick. Also, water during dry season if needed.
7. Your finished compost will be ready in 2 to 6 months. If compost
is layered, you can leave unturned for 6 months to a year and compost
will be ready.
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What
can go in
my compost bin?
YES
Vegetable scraps
Coffee grinds
Egg shells
NO
Fish scraps
Grease or cooked food
BBQ/fireplace ashes
Food with oil in it, even salad
Composting Links
The Greater Victoria Compost Education Centre is a not for profit
organization providing composting & organic gardening education.
www.compost.bc.ca.
North Shore Recycling Program
www.nsrp.bc.ca.
Click on Natural Yard Care.
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