How to Make Compost in the Yard
- 1). Locate the compost pile close to the kitchen or garden for easy access, but, ideally, where it is out of sight. You do not need to place the compost in a container, but doing so will help keep everything in one location.
- 2). Pile compost materials 3 feet high in an area that measures 3 feet by 3 feet. This will allow you to easily retain heat and manage the compost well. Consider making a wooden crate with these dimensions to hold the compost.
- 3). Use a balance of nitrogen- and carbon-rich materials. Nitrogen materials consists of green matter such as grass clippings and manure. Carbon materials come from brown items such as leaves and straw. Use an equal portion of both green and brown materials.
- 4). Apply microorganisms to the pile. Add a shovelful of rich soil or old compost.
- 5). Allow the compost to reach a temperature of 120 to 160 degrees. This will make the compost decompose faster. You can achieve this by keeping the compost in direct sunlight.
- 6). Add water to the compost when necessary. The surface of the compost must always remain damp. Adding too much water will alter the compost's temperature.
- 7). Turn the compost once a week with a rake. Move the green and brown materials from outside of the compost inwards. The compost will finish developing after two months. Once the compost no longer heats and has a dark, earthy smell in which you can no longer detect any of the original products, then you can add the compost to your garden.
