Fall Composting Tips for Gardeners

By Aaron J. Steil

Gardeners are encouraged to compost leaves this fall to improve soil health. With plenty of leaves, grass clippings and garden debris available, residents can create compost piles that benefit the environment, recycle yard waste and nourish their gardens.

“Composting is a natural process that turns organic material into a dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling material called humus,” said Aaron Steil, consumer horticulture specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “It is an excellent soil amendment that improves soil structure, increases water-holding capacity and provides nutrients.”

Building and maintaining a compost pile

Effective composting requires a balance of carbon-rich “browns” (such as dried leaves and straw) and nitrogen-rich “greens” (like vegetable scraps and fresh grass clippings). The ideal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio is about 30:1. Steil recommends piles be at least three feet tall and wide to retain heat and should be turned regularly to maintain airflow and moisture.

“A three-bin system can work well with one bin used to stockpile materials until there is enough material to begin a composting batch," said Steil. "The second bin is used for active composting and the third is used for the finished material to be stored until it can be used."