How to Make Compost for Your Garden: A Beginner's Guide

Why Compost?

Up to 40% of household waste is compostable. Compost conditions soil, feeds plants, and reduces landfill waste. Good compost is crumbly, dark, and sweet-smelling.

Setup Options

Use a bin (easier for beginners) or a simple covered pile in a garden corner (plastic, wood, or cardboard cover works).

What to Compost

• Yes: Grass clippings, young weeds (fast breakdown), older plant matter (best quality, slower), kitchen scraps (vegetable/fruit). Mix for balance.
• No: Meat, cooked food — attract pests.

The Process

• Chop materials small for faster decomposition.
• Ensure airflow and drainage.
• Adjust moisture: add dry matter if soggy, water if dry.
• Turn occasionally to mix and aerate.

Ready to Use

When dark and crumbly, mix into soil to boost fertility and structure. Composting is a simple, rewarding habit for any gardener.