Simple Instructions to Follow When Making a Compost Pit
The process of making a compost pit – to a gardener – can be quite fulfilling and rewarding at the same time. However, many are they who make it seem like a daunting yet herculean task with expensive hardware and fancy paraphernalia’s. But that notwithstanding, one can make a reliable homemade compost pit using the simplest of methods.
With a few considerable tools, outstanding effort and a quick turn over after every fortnight or so; one can come up with a compost pile in their yard that screams gardening from afar. In order to add nutrients to the soil and enhance the growth of plants substantially, it is paramount to have a compost pile in a garden. This article looks at the simple steps that are needed to come up with a homemade compost pit.
The premier step is to select a piece of ground. It is a requisite that a compost pit be away from direct sunlight or under a complete shade. Both situations are capable of altering the break-down process of a compost pile in a pit. Thereafter mark a square, depending of course on the size of the piece of ground that is at least 3-by-3 feet on average.
Once done, dig out the marked ground. It is very important that the set depth of the ground be at least 6 inches. Not more than that. It must also be noted herein that the soil removed from the pit, not only must it be kept near the edge of the pit, but it must be made free from stones, debris and roots. This soil will be added back to the pit to act as a catalyst to the microbial activity.
At the center of the pit, ensure to deposit enough garden clippings, coffee grounds, household scraps and other fresh organic materials. Crucial elements that make up garden compost are dry leaves and green garden debris. Consequently, it is advisable to balance one part green organic materials to two parts dry leaves materials. Like say, garden clippings, chopped twigs, brown organic materials and small amounts shredded brown cupboard.
Mix and turn the contents every fortnight. While this is very important, there is a set procedure to the exercise. Firstly – and with a pitchfork – heap and turn the assorted materials to the center of the pit. This must be done while adding the dug-out soil. To provide pockets of air to the inner layers, poke holes in the stack. And then lastly, sprinkle water during sultry weather prior to using the compost after it decomposes.
