A healthy compost pile needs a mix of 'greens' (fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings) for nitrogen and 'browns' (dry leaves, cardboard, straw) for carbon. Aim for roughly 3 parts browns to 1 part greens.
The Basics of Starting a Backyard Compost Pile
Composting turns kitchen and yard waste into rich, free fertilizer for your garden. If you've been meaning to start a pile, here's what you need to know to get going.
Balance Greens and Browns
Skip Meat, Dairy, and Oils
These attract pests and slow decomposition. Stick to plant-based scraps, eggshells, and yard waste.
Turn It Regularly
Turning the pile every week or two with a pitchfork introduces oxygen, which speeds up decomposition and prevents odor from anaerobic bacteria.
Keep It Moist, Not Soggy
Your pile should feel like a damp sponge. Too dry and decomposition stalls; too wet and it turns slimy and smelly. Add water or dry browns as needed to adjust.
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