Autumn frosts usually means lots of clean up around the yard and
garden. Why not turn that yard waste into treasure? Composting
is a naturally occurring process that breaks down organic
materials into an excellent soil amendment that improves soil
structure, as well as adds some nutrients. Composting recycles
your garden wastes, improves your soil, and reduces disposal
costs. All organic materials will break down eventually, but
gardeners can speed up the process with good management. The
basic ingredients for successful composting include organic
materials and microorganisms with the proper balance of carbon,
nitrogen, water, and oxygen. What Goes in the Pile? Good
candidates for composting include end-of-the-season garden
plants, pulled weeds, grass clippings, tree leaves, and plant
trimmings. The smaller the particle size, the faster the organic
materials will break down—chopped or shredded plants will
compost more quickly. Some kitchen wastes, such as vegetable and
fruit scraps and coffee or tea grounds,