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May 16
2009
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Fanatics often suggest strict carbon/nitrogen ‘recipes,' turning frequently, and taking the temperature of the pile to assure it's getting hot. I tend to be way more laid back, with piling what's available onto the pile, knowing that it all decomposes eventually. Matthew described well the choices of containers to free-style composting. He also suggested reusing wood pallets to hold the yard trimmings and kitchen leftovers including fruit and veggie peels.
I was pleased to hear him say that he encourages at least a partially shaded spot for the pile; "in the shade of a deciduous tree" was his suggestion. Many books recommend full sun, but the need for additional watering of the pile is often neglected. Matthew's astute point was that by sitting in the partial shade of the tree, the pile will not dry out so quickly.
Our talks blended since I had suggested the use of "top dressing" the lawn ...the old-fashioned method of spreading a quarter to half-inch of compost on the lawn instead of fertilizer. Good compost is more complete than manufactured fertilizers, and includes living beneficial microbes to help establish a healthy soil.
