Creating a compost pile not only benefits the environment, it can also directly benefit you. Composting does not require a lot of work and you can start one with just a few household materials. In order to see the benefits of composting, you must learn how to make a proper pile, otherwise you could spread pollution or disease.

Identification

Compost contains decayed organic material that holds many of the minerals and nutrients that plants use for growth, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Nature has created natural compost since the beginning of time.

Benefits

Composting produces the same nutrients found in man-made fertilizer; using compost reduces the need to purchase synthetic fertilizer and saves you money, according to Washington State University. Compost also diverts yard clippings away from waste disposal sites. According to EPA statistics, yard waste and food scraps make up about 25 percent of all waste. When in a landfill, yard trimmings form the greenhouse gas methane, which contributes to global warming.

Features

Composting promotes the growth of certain bacteria that can help regenerate spent soil by breaking down the organic material into humus. The EPA said humus is nutrient-rich and keeps water inside of the soil.

Tips

No standard compost pile exists, reports the EPA. However, you should try to have an equal mix of green and brown matter. The easiest way to create a pile requires you to find a shady, moist spot (or use a container such as a bucket or surround it with bricks) for your chopped or shredded brown and green organic material. As compost forms, mash in yard waste and put fruit and veggie waste under at least 10 inches of compost. Always keep the pile moist, but not wet, especially after adding dry matter.

Warning

Never mix anything with dangerous chemicals into compost. In addition, do not compost black walnut tree trimmings (it decays into a material that inhibits growth) or anything that could spread disease or release odor, such as feces from animals or meat and dairy products.

Source:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Basic Composting Information

Washington State University; Compost Benefits & Uses

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Environmental Benefits

Resource:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Create Your Own Compost Pile

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Municipal Solid Waste Facts and Figures; 2008