Compost is the gardener's gold. This old wisdom still applies today. That's why a compost heap is essential in the garden. You can even make compost in a bucket on the patio. The correct structure is crucial. What does the compost structure look like?
What does the correct compost structure look like?
When making compost, you should first create a thin layer of chopped shrubs or leaves, followed by shredded garden waste and kitchen scraps. A few scoops of half-rotted compost or a commercially available compost starter can be used as a starter. A balanced mixture and finely shredded material promote composting.
Compost structure in a conventional composter
With a conventional composter in the garden, you first lay out a thin layer of chopped shrubs or leaves. Bark mulch also works as an alternative.
Then fill up with shredded garden scraps and waste from the kitchen.
If available, add a few scoops of already half-rotted compost over the compost materials as a starter. You can also use commercial compost starter.
Compost construction in the thermal composter
Set up the thermal composter and also create a bottom layer of shrubbery. Then add the material to be composted. Be careful not to make the mixture too wet.
After the first layer of compost material, add either finished compost or compost starter to the materials.
The right mixture makes all the difference
Good compost contains balanced nutrients, is not too wet or too dry and does not smell. That's why the right mixture plays an important role.
Mix waste that is too wet, for example from the kitchen, with shrub residues and other dry materials. You can also use cardboard, egg cartons or paper for this.
What is not allowed in the compost?
- Dog poop
- Cat litter only limited
- sick plants
- Plant residues with pests
When composting lawn clippings and leaves, especially walnut leaves, you should mix the material well with other substances. Otherwise the compost will become very acidic.
Don't put too much lawn clippings or leaves in the composter at once, but rather divide the amounts. Then the compost won't mold so quickly.
Lime compost – yes or no?
Limeing the compost is often recommended. But this only makes sense if the compost material is very acidic. Lime can be used to raise the pH value.
Rock dust is better for composting than lime. The flour does not harm the microorganisms as much as lime.
Tip
Carefully shred all garden and kitchen waste. A shredder is good for large gardens and can be used to shred the waste very well.
