Building a compost heap. Step-by-step instructions on how to build an effective compost heap. Outline given of open and closed methods.
The lifeblood of any garden is its compost heap. The compost, or humus as it is also known, supplies the nutrients, fibre and, most importantly, the earthworms, to healthy soil. Composting is also a great way of limiting the size of landfills around the world.
There are two ways you can go about composting - in the open (or in an open pen) or in a closed bin. If you have a large enough backyard, the open pen provides the richest compost, as well as the richest experience; but a lidded bin can provide adequate compost in a small yard.
Ideally, you will have a pen divided into three sections, the first section being twice the size of the other two. The first section is used to store unshredded organic material waiting to be composted. The other two sections allow for storing composted material while composting is happening in the other. Some sort of roof should be over the second and third sections to keep heavy rain out.
Starting on open soil in the second section, give the soil a quick dig to roughen it up. On top of this place coarse material, such as twigs, to a depth of about 15 centimetres. This allows the compost to drain and for air to circulate underneath.
Next add about 15 centimetres of plant material, (such as food scraps, shredded plants and grass clippings), followed by a 5 centimetre layer of animal manure, and then a thin layer of soil with a touch of soil. Repeat this process until you have a stack about 1.5 metres high, watering each layer lightly. The watering may not be necessary if materials are already damp.
The pile is then allowed to stand for approximately six weeks. During this time micro-organisms will do their bit to break the material down, causing the temperature of the pile to rise and then fall. After the six weeks is up, turn the pile over so that the outside material is now on the inside, and vice versa, and leave for another six weeks.
At the end of the second six weeks, the compost is turned over to put a bit of air through before use two or three days later. In the meantime another compost pile can be started in the remaining section once enough material has been accumulated.
When using a closed method not as much, if any, manure is used. The heat of the container will do the work to help break the material down. If only composting food scraps, an earthworm composter is ideal, as this provides a supply of earthworms and a rich fertiliser from their castings, as well as compost for your garden. Earthworm composters can be found at most gardening centres.
