How To Build a Compost Pile

Are you ready to compost but don't have a bin? Do not worry at all! Building a pile is just as effective as building a pile in a bin.

First, chop, break, and shred most of the material into small pieces. Remember: The smaller the pieces of organic matter in your compost, the faster the rate of decomposition. 
Then, build your pile alternating green and brown materials, like a layer cake. You could also just mix all of the browns and greens together, but that is usually harder for most people. When making a layer compost, follow these steps: 

1. Start with 4 inches of chunky browns (sticks, woody trimmings, dried perennial stems, cornstalks, and the like) to promote aeration at the bottom.
2. Add 4 to 5 inches of other browns (leaves, straw, woody trimmings, paper products, pine needles, sawdust).
3. Add 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 centimeters) of greens (kitchen scraps, grass clippings, leafy plant trimmings, manure).
4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until you reach a pile height of 3 to 5 feet. Finish with a top layer of browns to insulate.

Whether you layer or mix your compost pile doesn't really matter. The more important issue is to ensure that all your recipe ingredients are sufficiently moist as you build. Use a hose with an on/off spray attachment, and sprinkle each layer of organic matter as you build. Everything should have the moisture level of a wrung-out sponge, so grab a handful every once in a while as you build to test it.

And thats it! Remember that the compost must be turned every few days and follow this guide you believe there is something wrong with your compost!