How to Build a Backyard Compost Pile: Carbon & Nitrogen

What is the ideal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio for compost?

The ideal ratio is 30 parts Carbon (Browns) to 1 part Nitrogen (Greens) for rapid, smell-free decomposition.

What are examples of 'Brown' compost materials?

Dry leaves, straw, wood shavings, cardboard, shredded newspaper, pine needles, and dry twigs.

What are examples of 'Green' compost materials?

Vegetable peels, fruit scraps, green leaves, fresh grass clippings, coffee grounds, and tea leaves.

Why does a compost pile get hot?

Aerobic bacteria feed on the organic waste, multiplying rapidly and generating metabolic heat up to 50°C to 65°C.

How often should I turn my compost pile?

Turn the pile with a fork once or twice a week to introduce oxygen and move dry outer materials into the warm center.

What should never be added to a backyard compost bin?

Meat, bones, fat, dairy, pet feces, plastic, colored glossy paper, and diseased garden plants.

How do I fix a dry compost pile?

Sprinkle water over the layers as you turn them until the pile feels uniformly damp like a wrung-out sponge.

How do I fix a smelly, soggy compost pile?

Turn the pile to introduce air, and mix in plenty of dry brown materials like dry leaves or cardboard to absorb excess water.

What is compost curing?

The final phase of composting where the pile cools down, allowing earthworms and beneficial fungi to refine and mature the compost.

How do I know the compost is ready to use?

It turns dark brown, crumbly, resembles forest soil, has no visible food scraps, and smells like fresh, earthy rain.

How to Build and Maintain a Backyard Compost Pile