Expert: Greg - 10/20/2003

Question
I would like some easy step by step instructions on how to make a compost pile.  Can I start one now (I live in Michigan)?  How long does it take to make compost?  I have some information & have searched the internet, but have found things a little confusing.  I do not have a special container.  I am just looking to make one out in the open.  I am also confused about the turning and heating up process; I do understand it needs heat to break things down.  Please help.  Thank you very much.

Answer
Hello Betty

Well its a small World with the Internet, I live in Michigan also.

Yes you can start a Compost Pile right now, the Fall Leaves are an Excellent starting point. The Key Betty, is to make sure you have Green Matter <nitrogen> in a good Ratio of Brown Matter <carbon>. The Fall Leaves are a Great Source of Carbon. Start off with about a 3ft-5ft round or square pile, Nature doesn't care which you choose, piled about 6" High. Then add Green matter, this can be Grass Clippings, Table Scraps etc. about 2" on Top of that. Next and this is important, take Regular Garden Soil and cover the Layer of Green Matter. Wet this Down to Moist, but not Soggy. Continue doing this, Layer by Layer till you get about 3-4Ft Tall. Since its Winter, you need do nothing more till Spring. I don't care How Cold it gets outside, this will still heat up. The Inside of a Compost Pile can reach Temperatures of an Astounding 150 Degrees. Check this Pile in about a Month, you should sense heat if you put you hand into it, be carefull though. In Summertime when Temperatures are Warmer, you could actually Get Burned.

Check back in the Spring, and as soon as Temperatures get Warmer, turn the Whole Pile and mix it. How long will this take? It depends on a few factors, how small the Matter was in the pile. The Smaller the better. Is the Pile loctated in Direct Sun. Direct Sun is better. And was the Pile kept Moist, but not Soggy?

All Piles Decompose at different Time Tables.


Hope this Helps, if you need a better explanation, or if I have missed something, don't hesitate to ask for a Follow-up

Greg