Q Do you have any advice for making a compost heap?
A: The secret to building a good heap is composing it of equal amounts brown and green (gardening terms for dry and wet) materials.
This creates a balanced environment in which the microorganisms that break down organic plant matter will thrive.
Green, or wet, material includes grass clippings, fresh leaves, stems and flowers and some fruits, vegetables, tea bags and coffee grounds. Grain products, such as bread or pasta, should be added sparingly.
Brown, or dry, material includes dead leaves, dry hay or straw, wood chips, sawdust , old potting soil, and newsprint torn into thin strips and added in such a way that it will not stick together and form an impenetrable mat.
Seeds, especially those from weeds or diseased plants, should never be added.
Avoid all animal products including milk products. Refrain also from wood chips or sawdust from treated lumber. If you are unertain, keep it out of the pile.
Buy or make a compost bin, or pile material in an inconspicuous area. Avoid composting on or against wooden surfaces, as these will gradually decompose.
Begin by alternately layering brown and green materials in 2- to 4-inch layers. Aim for an eventual size of 3 square feet. After starting, wet it down with a hose so it’s as moist as a wrung-out sponge — too much or too little water can slow down or even stop the composting process.
Have a means of covering your pile in times of heavy rain.
You may want to turn it periodically, using a pitchfork to mix old and new layers, as well as the greens with the browns so the compost will be ready sooner.
Once your pile is 3 feet high, stop adding to it, and let it rot. If you have additional material, start a second pile. If your pile is turned and kept at an appropriate moisture level, expect it to be ready in six months to two years.
Finished compost should have no bad odors, and it should be uniformly decomposed. It will be rich brown and crumbly.
Don’t grow plants in pure compost.
Address questions to Ask Martha, care of Letters Department, Martha Stewart Living, 601 W. 26th St., Ninth floor, New York, NY 10001. Send e-mail to mslletters@marthastewart.com.
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