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An Introduction to Composting Basics

LSU AgCenter

Composting has benefits to the garden, gadener, and the environment. The number one benefit of composting is in the pocketbook. Here are some tips to getting started with your composting.

Make sure the bin is large enough to make the heat that is necessary to break down the material rapidly and to kill off weed seeds. One cubic yard is the magic size for compost bins. Sometimes with a new hobby, common wisdom says to start small. That's not the case with composting; bigger is better.

Use a pitchfork, not a shovel. A pitchfork will stir up the mixture much more thoroughly than simply flipping the pile with a shovel.

Be sure the pile is within reach of a water source, like your garden hose. A dry compost bin will take a very long time to work.

Don't dump and run. Always mix in your scraps when you add them. And turn the compost bin every two weeks.

Have multiple bins. You don't want to keep adding fresh material to a compost bin that's getting close to being finished. Separate your endeavors.