I will abide by the signs near the compost area that explain whether to add compost, rest compost, and take compost. A list of appropriate and inappropriate additions will be distributed at the mandatory meetings. The list of appropriate materials will consist of green and brown materials. When adding green materials to compost I will also add three times the amount of brown materials. All materials added to the bins must be cut up and be free of diseases or insect infestations. Weeds with seed heads should not be added to the compost bins. Trash should never be placed in the bins. Biodegradable/compostable bags are not permitted in compost bins.
Adding Greens and Browns
Step One
Add layers of green and brown materials
IMPORTANT! Chop up larger materials for faster decomposition.
Step Two
Whenever you add a food scrap layer, make sure you sprinkle it with soil and then cap off with at least three times the amount in brown layers to prevent smells and flies.
Mixing Compost
Mix bin contents often (minimum once every two weeks). This introduces air and gets the bin heating up again. Mix older materials with newer materials for faster decomposition.
Moisture content of the bin should be like a wrung out dish rag. Only add water if the pile is very dry after mixing.
Adding Compost to your Garden
Compost is generally ready to use when it looks like humus (after about two to three months after last addition).
What to put in the compost pile
Brown Layers (high in carbon)
- Shredded cardboard paper towel & toilet rolls
- Shredded Newspaper
- Fireplace ashes
- Straw
- Nut shells
- Sawdust
- Tea bags
- Wood chips
Green Layers (high in nitrogen)
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Clean eggshells
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Flower Heads & Weeds with No Seed Heads
- Composted manure
- Untreated grass clippings
Leave Out/Reason Why
Dairy products (e.g., butter, egg yolks, milk, sour cream, yogurt)
– Create odor problems and attract pests such as rodents and flies
Diseased or insect-ridden plants
– Diseases or insects might survive and be transferred back to other plants
Fats, grease, lard, or oils
– Create odor problems and attract pests such as rodents and flies
Meat or fish bones and scraps
– Create odor problems and attract pests such as rodents and flies
Pet wastes (e.g., dog or cat feces, soiled cat litter)
– Might contain parasites, bacteria, germs, pathogens, and viruses harmful to humans
Yard trimmings treated with chemical pesticides/weed suppressant
– Might kill beneficial composting organisms
Information provided by EPA