Composting 101: Everything You Need to Start Improving Your Soil Today

Composting 101: Everything You Need to Start Improving Your Soil Today

Composting 101: Everything You Need to Start Improving Your Soil Today 

Based on the Chapter 2 of the book: Composting For The Absolute Beginner: How to Improve Your Soil For Better Organic Gardening by Dede Cummings. Click here to purchase

If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need to master composting. The process is simple, rewarding, and crucial for organic gardening success. In this guide, we’ll break down key composting principles—from carbon-nitrogen ratios to critters that keep the pile alive—so you can start turning waste into rich, fertile soil.

Getting Started: Composting Made Simple

The basics of composting involve balancing organic materials that decompose into nutrient-rich soil. Carbon-rich "browns"—like leaves and cardboard—combine with nitrogen-rich "greens"—such as food scraps and grass—to create an active pile. Oxygenation is also crucial, ensuring decomposition remains steady rather than stagnant.

Winter Composting and Recycled Bins

Composting doesn’t have to stop when temperatures drop! Insulating your pile with leaves or straw, turning it less frequently, and using enclosed bins helps maintain steady breakdown. DIY compost bins can be made from repurposed materials, reducing costs while staying environmentally friendly. If you aren't a DIY kind of person here are two Compost Bins you can purchase: 

Small Kitchen Counter one:

Compost Bin Kitchen, 1.3 Gallon Farmhouse Kitchen Compost Bin Countertop, Indoor Countertop Compost Bucket with Lid and Charcoal Filters, White.  Click here 

Large Outside Compost Bin: 

37 Gallon Compost Bin Dual Chamber Composter Tumbler Rotating Chamber Garden Composter Bin with 2 Sliding Doors Steel Frame Outdoor Kitchen Garden Yard Click Here 

Troubleshooting: Is Your Compost Stuck?

A well-maintained pile should be moist but not soggy, warm but not overheated, and active but not stagnant. Common issues include:

  • “Constipated” Compost—Piles that take too long to break down may need more oxygenation or nitrogen.

  • Is It Finished Yet?—Ready compost is dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling. If it still resembles original scraps, give it more time.

  • Thawing a Frozen Pile—Winter piles slow down but can reactivate with insulation, turning, or added heat sources.

The Helpers: Worms, Critters, and Microbes

Your compost isn’t just a pile—it’s a living ecosystem. Earthworms, fungi, and microbes break down waste efficiently. Chickens can even help, scratching through piles and aerating the mix!

Composting Equipment: What You Need (and What You Don’t)

Fancy tools aren’t required for successful composting. While a good bin and turning tool can be helpful, you don’t necessarily need black plastic composters, aerators, activators, sifters, or shredders.

Final Thoughts: Easy Steps to Begin Composting Today

  1. Choose a compost location (pile or bin).

  2. Layer brown and green materials.

  3. Turn the pile regularly for oxygenation.

  4. Monitor moisture and temperature.

  5. Let nature take its course!

By following these simple steps, you’ll create healthy compost that enriches your soil naturally, reducing waste while improving plant vitality.

To check out the beginning stages of my journey on instagram click here 

For the First Blog post Composting For the Absolute Beginner: Click here 

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