How to Get Started with Composting: A Simple Beginner’s Guide

Composting is a natural process that transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich soil. It’s an easy, eco-friendly way to reduce waste and improve garden health. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for better composting techniques, this guide will walk you through the basics of getting started.

Step 1: Gather Your Composting Materials

A successful compost pile needs a balanced mix of green (nitrogen-rich) materials and brown (carbon-rich) materials.

Green Materials (Nitrogen Sources)

  • Grass clippings
  • Kitchen scraps (fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds)
  • Weeds (without seeds)
  • Pruned garden waste
  • Animal manures (horse, cow, chicken – but NOT pet waste)

Brown Materials (Carbon Sources)

  • Sticks (used as the first layer for airflow)
  • Leaves
  • Straw and hay
  • Corn stalks
  • Shredded newspaper
  • Wood chips

Step 2: Build Your Compost Pile

  1. Prepare the base: Start with a 4-6” layer of sticks to promote airflow.
  2. Alternate layers: Add green and brown materials in layers, leaving small air pockets for oxygen flow.
  3. Moisturize & activate: Sprinkle a thin layer of soil or finished compost (about 1/8” thick) between layers and lightly water the pile to kick-start decomposition.
  4. Size matters: Build your pile to 3-5 feet tall and wide to maintain proper heat retention.

Step 3: Manage and Maintain Your Compost

Heating & Turning

  • The compost pile should heat up within a few days, reaching 120–140°F.
  • Turn the pile when it cools down, using a compost thermometer for accuracy.
  • Continue turning the compost regularly until it stops reheating after turning.

Moisture Check

  • The compost should feel like a damp sponge.
  • If too dry, add water. If too wet, mix in dry brown materials to absorb excess moisture.

Step 4: Know When Your Compost is Ready

Mature compost is dark brown, crumbly, and smells earthy. To ensure it’s fully decomposed:

  • Check for an even texture with very few recognizable pieces.
  • Sift out any uncomposted material and return it to the pile for further breakdown.

Step 5: Use Your Finished Compost

Compost can be used in various ways to enrich soil and boost plant health:

  • Potted Plants: Mix in up to 1/3 compost by volume.
  • Flower Beds: Spread 1/16” to 1/4” of compost and cover with 2” of mulch.
  • Lawn Establishment: Incorporate 1-2” of compost into the top 4-6” of soil before seeding.
  • Lawn Top Dressing: Apply a 1/8-1/4” layer over the grass.
  • Vegetable Gardens: Add 2” of compost annually and work it into the top 6-8” of soil.
  • Tree & Shrub Mulching: Spread a 1/16” to 1/4” layer out to the dripline and cover with bark mulch.

Start Composting Today!

Composting is an easy and rewarding way to reduce waste while enriching your soil naturally. By following these simple steps, you’ll have rich, organic compost to fuel a thriving garden in no time.

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