Composting FAQs

Composting is a cheap, natural and earth-friendly way to improve soil and nutrient conditions for your garden. Here are some frequently asked questions about basic composting:

• How often should I turn my compost pile?
  Every two weeks to aerate the compost

• When should I apply the compost to my garden?
  Two to four weeks before you plant

• How do I make my compost less smelly?
  Aerate your compost regularly; the smell is generated by the anaerobic microbes that give off an odor as they break down your compost. Aerating limits their activity and stimulates the less smelly aerobic microbes.

• Where should I put my compost pile?
  Composting works best when placed in a place where it can receive direct sunlight.

• What is the recommended size for a compost pile?
  A 3-foot cube. This size is manageable for turning and ideal for retaining heat alongside air flow.

• How do I compost during the winter?
  Compost works best at higher temperatures, but it is still possible to continue composting through the winter. Keep the compost in a black bin in direct sunlight. You can also take further measures to insulate the compost using hay bales.

• What is the ideal ratio of carbon materials to nitrogen materials?
  ⅓ nitrogen and ⅔ carbon

• How can I tell when it’s done?
  Finished compost should look, smell, and feel like rich and dark soil. None of the original materials that you put into the pile should be recognizable.

• What types of things should I not put in the compost pile?
  Avoid these following items, as they can attract unwanted pests or spread detrimental chemicals or diseases into your compost.

  • fats

  • pet droppings

  • animal products

  • plants treated with pesticides or herbicides

  • perennial weeds

  • diseased plants

If you are interested in getting some new grass to complement your garden, visit our online store today. Happy Composting!