Compost

dixie_dean_2

I'm 26 years old and consider myself of at least average coolness(I'm probably being modest, lets say the upper escheleons of coolness, if not spelling). But, here I am, about to ask a gardening question! Growing up...it comes to us all. I've a house,a job, a girlfriend and all that other grown up shti. So, enough waffling. I'm gonna try and grow some purple sprouting broccoli and maybe compost is a good idea? My plan is to chuck all my organic household waste in the back garden and hope for the best. But...what do I put it in? Do i just chuck it in the soil? In a bag? Or what? Any other tips would be most appreciated. And if I have given the impression that I think gardening isn't hip and trendy and have offended any gardeners, I must say, it is of course exceptionally cool - just maybe not for a 26 year old.

Anonymous and ashamed, Leeds

Pink.

Hi dixie dean,

This recent thread should help: very low cost compost bin

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sandymogs_2

We have a compost bin with lid. It has holes in the bottom to let the moisture drain. You can dig a hole if you wish or make a slatted barrier out some pieces of wood in the corner of the garden. You can use bags but remember to put holes in the bottom. If earth worms can get into the bottom of the compost it helps to aerate the compost and speed up the rotting process.

Jolaaled

I just use a 2 - square metre area of garden that i've divided off with some old wooden pallets.

I chuck any veg stuff (uncooked..otherwise you'll attract foxes), garden clippings ( so long as they're not woody)..grass clippings, tea bags etc.

You have to mix the whole thing up about every month, or so..and i keep it covered with some old carpet. this works well..but takes around a year to get nice crumbly compost.

dixie_dean_2

So my chances of getting compost to use, kinda now, are non-existent?

jenniferpa

Actually, provided you have a good mix of green stuff, brown stuff and earth (please note the technical terms) AND you mix it very frequently you can make it faster. You need a fairly large pile, (about 1 metre square), the right moisture levels and you need to turn it about once a week.

Jennifer

patchwork_cat

I have never succeeded(sp) with compost for one simple reason - you have to turn it. It should be moist and well aerated. If you want it quick use a starter (wee!) and turn it often.

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patchwork_cat wrote:

I have never succeeded(sp) with compost for one simple reason - you have to turn it. It should be moist and well aerated. If you want it quick use a starter (wee!) and turn it often.

patchwork cat, your post just reminded me of this thread. Composting

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taplady

We have 2 of the large plastic compost bins in our garden. Do we have to mix it ? have just been chucking the stuff in on top of the pile, I dont remember the leaflet saying we had to mix it. We have put a little pigeon muck in too as I understand its a good accelerant.