Veggie Teens

Our Compost Pile

About four months ago my dad started a compost pile for fertilizer for a garden he was planning to start. In case you don't know what composting is, it is breaking down organic materials. When we started the compost pile we thought it would be as easy as putting fruit and vegetable scraps into a container. Turns out it wasn't that easy. We had the lid on it for four months but it shouldn't have been. Having the lid on it caused it to stink and according to composting websites, it should smell fresh - ours definitely did not.

When I was researching the different things that can go into a compost pile, I found a lot of contradictory information. Some said you could put dairy products, bones, dog waste, and even urine (yuck)! But most of the other sites say that those things should NOT be put in. We weren't putting any of those things in but we weren't putting enough "browns" - yard waste and newspaper. We started a new compost pile and so far it is going better. For a list of composting materials check out my Composting post.

Composting: How the Earth Recycles

Composting is a good way to help the environment. Composting breaks down organic material; it is how the Earth recycles. In about six months, you'll have fertilizer to help you grow fresh fruits and vegetables or a garden full of flowers.

To start a compost pile, all you need is a large container (we use a trash bucket). Place the bucket outside in an area that gets some sunlight. Here is a list of things that can be composted:

• Fruit and vegetable scraps and peels
• Fruits and vegetables that have gone bad
• Dead or living house plants and flowers
• Paper (Tear or shred into small pieces or soak it to make it soggy)
• Soil
• Coffee grounds
• Crushed egg shells
• Yard waste, such as leaves and grass clippings

After you are done cooking or cleaning your yard, just add the items to the bucket. Keep in mind that the smaller the pieces, the faster it decomposes. Every week or so, stir the mixture. The compost pile should be slightly wet, like a sponge that has been wrung out. If you live in a dry place like Arizona like me, you can add water to the bin and stir it in. Just remember composting takes about six months; if you keep adding new material, it will take even longer. The compost is ready to use for gardening when the compost is like soil; it will be dark brown and fluffy with a slightly sweet odor.