Text Box: Creating your pile (compost site): Compost piles can be made using timber. Pieces of wood will help to build a compost area for the garden. It is recommended that the compost pile’s size be 3’ x 3’ x 3’. Be sure to use a space with good drainage. Text Box: How do I compost at home?

Example of a simple wood frame for a compost pile.

Control of temperature:

During the composting process, the temperature changes.  It goes up to a certain temperature (around 140– 150 degrees Fahrenheit), and then starts to reduce.

Using a steel bar, you are going to be able to monitor the temperature and humidity of your pile.  After inserting the steel bar into the pile, you much touch the extremity of the bar you have inserted.  If the bar is not warm, the temperature is below 100F.  If the steel bar is warm, it is most likely that the temperature is around 140F.

Aeration:

Using a PVC tube with perforations on it, you will allow for better aeration to the pile.

Rotating the compost:

It is important to mix the compost occasionally.  Once every week to two weeks is adequate.  Do not leave wet and fresh household scraps on the top of the pile as this will encourage fruit flies.  Cover the fresh waste with dry leaves, yard clippings, etc.

Time expected for the composting process:

60-90 days