You may already know that composting is a great way to enrich your soil, and that it’s great for the environment. It’s a free, simple way to save the earth while helping your garden thrive. However, you might not know how to get started. Read on for a few tips on how to start composting.
Know your materials
You’ll need a mix of carbon-rich “brown” materials like fall leaves, shredded newspaper and dead flowers, and nitrogen-heavy “green” materials such as barnyard animal manure or plant-based kitchen scraps. Make sure to avoid waste from dogs and cats, as well as scraps of meat.
Choose a site
Start composting on bare earth, so that worms and other beneficial organisms can aerate the compost.
Layer it up
Begin with a few inches of twigs or straw, and then add alternating moist and dry layers of composting materials.
Keep it moist
If you live in a rainy area, natural moisture might be enough to keep your compost damp. Otherwise, you may need to add water from time to time. Make sure the compost is just moist, not completely soaked.
Turn it over
Give your compost pile a good turn every few weeks with a pitchfork or shovel in order to add oxygen to the mix.
Keep your compost covered
Cover the compost with wood, carpet scraps, plastic sheeting – anything you have will do. This helps it hold on to moisture and heat without getting over-watered.
Whether you need help getting started composting, or have any other garden projects, Suburban Lawn Sprinkler Co. has you covered. Call us today at 508-872-2727 to find out more.
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