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Making a Compost

Source: NDSU Extension Service Horticulturist

Your garden will benefit from compost. It improves the soil, and makes the finest plants grow even better. Compost is easy to make. All you need is raw organic matter and soil. The most common materials for raw organic matter are leaves, weeds, grass clippings, and garden refuse.

Build the compost pile in an out-of-the-way section of your backyard. It's best to locate the pile in a shady spot, but not under a tree since roots may grow into the pile. Make an open-end bin or box to hold the compost. It can be 3 to 4 feet wide, 3 to 4 feet high, and any length. You can build the box of wire fence, snow fence, rough boards, brick or cement blocks.

To make the compost pile, alternate layers of raw organic material and soil. Start with organic matter 6 inches deep if the material is fairly solid, or 12 inches deep if it is loose. Add water if the material is dry.

Add a one-inch layer of soil and continue to alternate layers of organic matter and soil as described until the pile is 3 to 4 feet high. Be sure to make the pile slightly higher on the sides for easy wetting. Complete the pile with a soil layer on the top and sides.

Care

Keep your compost pile moist, but not soggy. There will be little odor if the pile is moist and if it is turned on a regular basis. For a continuous compost supply, make more than one pile.

If you have further questions, contact your county office of the NDSU Extension Service for additional information on making compost.

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