How it works
A healthy pile should be damp like a wrung-out sponge and mixed enough to avoid compacted, airless pockets. Smaller pieces break down faster, but the pile should still have structure.
What people often miss
Keep meat, dairy, fats, pet waste, and diseased plants out of a basic backyard pile. Local programs may accept materials that home systems do not handle well.
Why this question comes up
Food-waste reduction programs have renewed interest in backyard and countertop composting.
Key points
- Combine nitrogen-rich food scraps and green material with carbon-rich dry leaves or woody material, then provide moisture, oxygen, and time.
- A healthy pile should be damp like a wrung-out sponge and mixed enough to avoid compacted, airless pockets. Smaller pieces break down faster, but the pile should still have structure.
- Keep meat, dairy, fats, pet waste, and diseased plants out of a basic backyard pile. Local programs may accept materials that home systems do not handle well.
Bottom line
Combine nitrogen-rich food scraps and green material with carbon-rich dry leaves or woody material, then provide moisture, oxygen, and time.
Source and verification
This Answer was checked against EPA Composting at Home. Follow the source for the full official explanation and any later updates.