|
Pile Where?
Now, before you go throwing your eggshells out the
kitchen window, you should put some thought in where you want your compost
pile to be. It's a good idea to have a location that is easy access to a
hose. Also, bugs are going to be a part of composting so it would not be a
good idea to put it right next to your home or your neighbors. Does your
city or neighborhood have ordinances that would keep you from having a pile?
A Simple But Effective Pile
There are many gadgets on the market that roll, rumble
and shake themselves silly but we are going to discuss the good old compost
pile. A good compost pile will contain layers of organic matter like mulched
leaves, grass clippings, and kitchen waste like eggshells, coffee grounds,
and vegetable scraps. You should never put meat products or pet waste into a
compost bin. Next layer should contain soil, manure from veggie eating
critters, sprinkle on a little blood meal and how about some beer? Beer
contains yeast which feeds the beneficial bacteria and fungi in the compost
pile. So bottoms up! Remember to to add some water if your compost pile
starts to dry, compost should be moist not wet. Also try turning the
steaming pile once a week for circulation.
'Ding' It's Done?
When compost looks like crumbly dark soil with an
earthy smell then it is done and ready to be used. Compost can be used to
amend soil, used as a topdressing for lawns and around flowers. Compost that
has been sterilized can be used for indoor houseplants. You can do this by
taking a large aluminum-baking pan with three to four inches of compost on
it, insert a meat thermometer in the center and place in a preheated oven,
at 200°F. Once the center reads 160°F, bake for 30 minutes. Allow mixture to
cool thoroughly before using. Enjoy your very own black gold.
Advice contributed by 'Boo' |
