Compost! Your Gardens Best Friend.

Compost is often considered the single most important secret to a great garden! It's easy to do and your garden will really thank you, it's what your plants need to live!

Here's What You Need

The "Big Four" Basic Ingredients:

1. "Browns"--twigs or straw, leaves, dead plant matter that is fibrous, woody and usually dry
2. "Greens"--grass clippings, food waste, prunings from trees
3. Air
4. Water

Here's What You Do

In a compost bin, layer browns and greens in equal amounts. As more browns and greens are added, keep the layering process consistent. Mix or turn the layers with a pitch fork to oxygenate the composition, then add water.

Over time, the pile begins to heat up. Why? "It's the microorganisms," says Starkey. "The bacteria that live on these things live on everything! You give them the perfect environment to live and they get busy!"

If your layers are correct and your moisture level remains correct, you could have compost ready for your garden in as little as two weeks.