Extension

One of the keys to successful gardening is starting with good soil. Good drainage, proper irrigation, adequate sunlight and healthy plants are also keys to successful gardening, but it really starts with good, rich soil. So, how does a gardener go about improving the quality of the soil in the landscape? This can be achieved by adding compost.

What is compost? It is a natural fertilizer and soil conditioner made from decomposed organic materials. Yard waste, such as grass clippings, leaves and small twigs, is a good addition to a compost pile, along with vegetable food scraps. Do not compost fatty foods, grease, meat or bones. Other things to avoid include diseased plants, weeds and vegetables that produce a lot of seeds, synthetic products, and pet or human waste.

Over time, these materials break down into a dark, nutrient-rich substance. Compost takes four to six months to form, so gardeners starting this summer will have plenty of time to have rich, organic material ready for early spring planting next year. If the pile is turned more frequently, the compost should be ready earlier. Turning the materials provides more air for the bacteria, and keeping it moist by soaking once a week, especially during the summer, is important. Remember, the smaller the pieces of material in the pile, the faster the materials will decompose.

Compost is ready when the temperature of the pile falls to ambient levels, the material is dark, crumbles easily, the pieces are small and there is no odor.

There are many benefits to composting beyond creating a rich, organic material. Composting natural materials such as yard waste and fruit/vegetable scraps reduces the amount of material going into landfills, prolonging landfill life. Gardeners will also save money by avoiding landfill fees. Plus, compost is rich in nutrients and can reduce the need for added chemical fertilizers.

Compost not only benefits plants but also improves soil structure and texture. Homeowners whose landscapes have sandy soil can increase soil water-holding capacity by adding compost. For those with clay soil, mixing in compost will loosen the soil, increase absorption and reduce water runoff. It also helps with erosion control, and when used as mulch around landscape plants, compost helps retain moisture. The great thing about compost is that it isn’t limited to use in traditional garden beds. It’s great for raised beds and container gardening, too.

Making a compost bin is easy. Construct a confining perimeter 3 feet to 5 feet in diameter and about 4 feet tall. Building material can be concrete blocks, wire mesh, old pallets, boards or even a garbage can with holes for air.

If gardeners don’t have materials to build a formal compost bin, simply create a heap in the corner of the yard. Another option is to dig a hole or trench, add food waste and cover it with soil.

 For more composting information, check out the “Backyard Composting in Oklahoma” fact sheet from Oklahoma State University Extension.