How to Use a Single Bin Compost System
- 1). Choose a convenient spot near your garden for your compost bin. Make sure the ground is solid and level, or the bin could sink or tip. Set up your compost bin according to manufacturer's instructions, or build one yourself.
- 2). Put a 3-inch layer of corn stalks, broken branches, and twigs in the bottom of the compost bin. If your bin has a slatted bottom, you can skip this step. The purpose of adding large materials to the bottom of the bin is to provide drainage and aeration. The slats on the bottom of some bins provide plenty without added material.
- 3). Spread out the tarp on the ground, then spread out an 8-inch layer of dead leaves, sawdust, and kitchen scraps. You should have enough to cover a space approximately the same footprint as your compost bin. If you don't have enough, try to add more dry brown material to your compost bin when you can.
- 4). On top of the brown material, add a 3-inch layer of green materials--grass clippings and other fresh material. Again, if you don't have enough available, just make a note to add more green material to the bin when you can.
- 5). Top the pile with a shovel full of garden soil.
- 6). Use the shovel or pitchfork to mix the materials together thoroughly. Sprinkle the pile with water from the hose and mix until it is damp but not soaking wet.
- 7). Shovel the moistened compost mix into the compost bin. Once a week, use the shovel or pitchfork to turn the compost in the bin, moving the material from the center toward the sides and the material near the sides closer to the center.
- 8). When you add more kitchen or yard waste, give the compost bin a quick turning with the shovel or pitchfork. Try to move the newer materials closer to the center of the bin where they can begin to break down faster.
