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More Composting Info
| What do you do with old plant material when you
clean up your garden? It can be difficult to dispose of garden refuse,
especially if you live in an area where yard waste is banned from landfills.
Composting is a good answer. Fall is a great time to build up your compost pile,
whether you already have one or are just starting it. You're going to be picking up a lot of leaves and other yard
waste in the next few weeks, so here are a few hints for building your compost
pile:
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If you don't already have one, create your
compost pile in an inconspicuous place where it will be convenient to
the garden. Containing the pile in a compost bin will save space, hasten
decomposition and help keep it neater. Many types are available at home
centers and garden stores, or you can build your own. |
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If possible, build your compost pile in
layers. A good scheme is to start with a 4- to 6-inch layer of coarse
material such as chopped brush. If you have grass clippings, add a 3- to
4-inch layer. On top of that, add a 4- to 6-inch layer of leaves or
garden waste. Those two layers should be damp. Then top them off with a
1-inch layer of garden soil. Continue building the pile by adding
layers. |
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You can aid the composting process by
sprinkling a high-nitrogen garden fertilizer over each layer of leaves
and garden waste. |
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Yard waste can be supplemented by adding
vegetable scraps, coffee grounds (even the filters) or eggshells from
your kitchen. Shredded newspaper can also be used. Do not use any animal
material such as meat scraps, bones, dairy products, grease or pet
waste, because those will cause unpleasant odors and may attract
rodents. |
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To speed the process, you can periodically
turn or aerate the pile. The objective is to shift material from the
outside closer to the center, where it may be heated up and decomposed.
In cold climates, little decomposition occurs in winter except in the
center of larger piles. Adding water periodically to keep the composting
material moist (about like a damp sponge) will also help the process. |
| When the composted material is ready to use, it will be dark
and crumbly, and it will have a wonderful, rich, earthy odor. Till or turn it
into your garden soil to provide a better growing environment for your plants.
The partially decomposed leaves will make great mulch for your
garden and save you money at the same time.
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