Compost Bins and Push Mowers: Organic Lawn Essentials

Questions about compost bins: do they work, what to put in, how long, roaches, application, vs. chemical fertilizers, opinion on Milorganite.

The expert: Compost creates microorganism "food factories" for grass roots. California's website has instructions. Bins heat up, killing weed seeds/pathogens. Ready by spring; top-dress lawn, let worms incorporate. Roaches are resilient but unwelcome. Grass clippings, leaves, kitchen scraps make great compost. Milorganite is a good organic fertilizer (processed sewage sludge).

Follow-up: Push reel mowers are superb—zero carbon, superior slice cut, quiet, great height adjustment. Leave clippings; they decompose quickly with frequent mowing.