We often assume that the vast amounts of lawn trimmings, raked leaves, and pruned branches we bag and throw away each year are harmless because they're organic. The truth is, putting all of these items in a landfill costs a pretty penny, and takes up a lot of space. Also, these materials produce methane, which is an ozone-depleting gas, as they rot away in landfills.
There is an easier and better way to dispose of kitchen and yard waste, and that way benefits everyone. Composting creates rich and fertile soil just perfect for your garden, and making garden compost can be easy, and best of all, free.
You don't have to have a huge garden or yard to make a garden compost pile. A small pile will do for a small garden. A compost bin is an inexpensive way to go, but it isn't necessary. What is necessary is moisture, aeration, a variety of organic matter, and warmth.
You will know your compost has matured when it is pleasant-smelling, dark brown in color, and has the consistency of a damp sponge. At this point, you can spread it around your garden, mix it with potting soil, or apply it to the soil for new plantings, though this should be done about five weeks before you plant. The compost will fertilize your garden in an amazing way, without waste and without the use of chemicals.
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