What Do Organic Growers Do About Making Compost?
David Storey offers organic answers to making compost. The central feature of every organic garden is the compost heap. The function of the heap is to recycle nutrients which can be returned to the soil. Anything living or once living can be put on the heap. Some sort of enclosure is needed to keep the heap together. Many gardeners use a composting bin but for those with a lot of garden waste these are generally too small. You can make your own compost enclosure by putting four wooden posts in the ground and attaching timber planks on three of the sides. Leave generous gaps between the planks to allow the air to circulate. All plant material can be added to the heap but tough leathery plants should be shredded first. Brassica stalks are the most difficult. They are best attacked with a lump hammer. If you have a lot of heavy material it might be worth investing in a garden shredder. Build the heap in one go. Layer the materials in six inch layers, alternating soft material with the hea
