Are you afraid of the ill-effects of chemical fertilizers? If yes, then it is time for you to learn how to make organic compost and shift into all-natural gardening. Making your own organic compost is less expensive compared to buying chemical or inorganic fertilizers. Another advantage of organic compost is that it aids the ability of the soil to absorb and retain water. It improves the soil structure and texture. Most importantly, it promotes better aeration.

For the instructions on how to create organic compost, read on below.

1. Make or purchase a compost bin. If you have enough space at home, you can make your own compost bin. You can also buy a ready-made plastic or steel compost bin. You can use steel and plastic drums and convert them into compost bins. Make sure that the structure of your compost bin is sturdy and can promote better aeration.

2. Gather compost materials. The compost materials are classified into green and brown. The green materials can be sourced out from fruit and vegetable peelings, biodegradable kitchen waste materials, leaves, and animal manures. The brown materials are your waste papers, cardboard, corn cobs, used tea bags, and coffee grounds. Avoid adding raw materials, especially raw meats. Also avoid oils, dairy products, grease, or any cooked food.

3. Layer the compost materials. You can first place 3 to 4 inches of green materials like hay, shredded leaves, and twigs at the bottom of your compost pile. Next, put down a little soil before placing another layer of brown compost organic matter. Then, put 4 to 5 inches of green organic matter. Follow this sequence over and over again until the compost bin or pit becomes full.

4. Spray water. Add considerable amounts of water into the compost. The water will provide moisture that can speed up the decomposition process of the compost. Too much water can cause the organic materials to rot and create a foul smell.

5. Cover the compost bin. Heat is an important factor in the decomposition process. Thus, the compost bin must be covered in order to generate internal heat. This is very crucial when the winter season comes. Compost bins and compost piles must be covered properly during cold seasons.

6. Add nitrogen organic matter. You can place 2 to 3 inches of cow manure, chicken manure, or horse manure in every 10 inches of organic matter. These organic materials are rich in nitrogen, which is good for the decomposition process. If you don’t have manure available, you can buy pesticide-free nitrogen fertilizer. Ask your local agriculturist on how to properly apply the matter into your compost pile.

7. Turn the compost. Turning the compost bin at least once a week allows the materials to mix thoroughly. Likewise, it will speed up the decomposition process of the organic items at the top of the compost by putting them at the bottom. It will also promote uniform decomposition and better aeration. When the compost materials turn dark brown that means they are ready for harvesting.

The question on how to make organic compost can now be answered with the above-mentioned steps. These steps will be your guide when you make organic compost at home. The rising number of illnesses attributable to the continuous use of chemical fertilizers should warn you to shift to organic fertilizer. It is not yet too late for you to make use of the organic materials at home. Doing so is eco-friendly, less expensive, and won’t harm your health. Take these steps and enjoy the benefits of using all-natural organic compost.