What is composting? How is compost made?

Composting is the natural process of converting organic waste (plant and animal materials) into nutrient-rich manure through microbial decomposition.

What is Compost? Compost is dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling material formed when organic waste decomposes. It's often called "black gold" by gardeners because of its high nutritional value for plants.

How Compost is Made - Traditional Method:

Step 1: Select Location

• Choose a shaded, dry area in your garden
• Dig a pit about 1-2 feet deep

Step 2: Add Organic Materials (Layers)

• Brown materials (carbon-rich): Dried leaves, straw, small twigs, sawdust
• Green materials (nitrogen-rich): Fresh grass, vegetable waste, fruit peels
• Alternate brown and green layers for best results

Step 3: Maintain Moisture

• Sprinkle water to keep the pile moist (like a wrung-out sponge)
• Not too wet (causes bad odor) or too dry (slows decomposition)

Step 4: Ensure Air Circulation

• Turn or mix the pile every 7-10 days using a stick or shovel
• This adds oxygen needed by decomposing microorganisms

Step 5: Monitor Temperature

• The pile will heat up (50-70°C) as microorganisms work
• This heat kills weed seeds and harmful pathogens

Step 6: Wait for Maturation

• Takes 2-3 months in warm weather
• 4-6 months in cooler climates
• Ready when material is dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling

Materials to AVOID in Composting:

• Meat, fish, dairy products (attract pests)
• Diseased plants
• Pet waste
• Plastics, metals, glass
• Chemically treated wood

Benefits: Reduces waste, creates free fertilizer, improves soil health, retains moisture, and reduces need for chemical fertilizers.