The coming of Spring is exciting for many reasons! Trees are starting to bloom, animals are exploring, and it is just so nice to see the sun again! Soon the fear of frost will be behind us and gardening season will be in full swing. Being a novice gardener I did not expect to miss my new hobby as much as I did this winter. One of the things I missed the most about gardening was composting.
The principles of organic gardening are based in the soil. Nurture the soil, and the soil feeds the plant. The needs of plants vary, based on sun exposure, watering needs, spacing, etc. But most plants with thrive in a soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. And that brings us back to composting!
Composting is an easy way to build up the nutrients and health of your soil no matter what your growing in your garden. Here are a few easy steps that will lead you down the path of recycling and sustainable gardening.
A Compost Bin/Container is not completely necessary. You can start a compost pile right on the ground, however having it contained will make it easy to keep clean. Whether using a bin or not, make sure to position your pile in a spot that gets plenty of sun. Compost piles do not always become smelly and attract bugs, however air on the side of caution and position your pile away from any house or shed.
There are many compost bins for sale that you may purchase, but first take a look around at what you already have. Compost bins can be enclosed, as long as it remains aerated. You will also need to be able to stir or mix up your compost pile. A rubber bin or a wooden box would do the trick. You could build a barrier on site, just to keep your pile from overflowing. I had a metal dog cage, about 3 ft. high and 2ft wide, that I use. I’m able to easily add to and mix up my compost pile.
Taking Care of your compost pile is easy. Add to it whenever and as often as you can. Make sure to stir it up regularly, at least once a week. If you do not stir up your compost pile it will take longer to decompose by depriving proper sun and air exposure. Your compost pile should be moist. Mine is exposed to rain and has yet to cause me a problem. But in the heat of August in Ohio, adding moisture is a must!

What To Compost? is an easy question. The answer…almost anything!

• Fruit & Veggie remnants
• Egg Shells
• Paper
• Tea bags & Tea (add unfinished cups of tea or coffee to your pile!)
• Coffee grounds
• Toilet or Paper towel rolls
• Hair (human or pet)
• Nail clippings (again human or pet)
• Garden waste (pulled weeds, cut grass, etc)
• Cardboard

I can’t wait to start putting my waste to good use again this spring. Make your household a little more green this summer and start a compost pile! Your garden will thank you for it.