If this is either your first time composting at home or you already have an existing compost bin in your home here are just a few handy tips that will stimulate and keep your compost active and healthy.

A good way to start is your bottom layer with a good thick layer of hay straw or grass clippings(perfect fresh from your lawn mower).

You can then add your food scrap but make sure to add a layer of weeds or any natural green material from the garden to create a layer cake effect.To give your soil an extra boost,every couple of layers put a handful of organic chicken pelets or organic blood and bone.You can pick up these bags from the nusery and although large they will last you a while.

Avoid putting any citrus peels,onions,garlics or chillis in but keep in mind if you have any citrus plants nearby keep these scraps and use them in the soil around these plants.

Every couple of weeks grab a shovel and turn your compost to create healthy irrigation.Another  tip would be to give your compost a good watering after you first create and everytime after you turn your soil.Water just until it is damp but not saturated.

Keep a lid on your compost bin to avoid attracting any rodents and other unwanted creatures but helthy soil should attract worms.

After 3-4 weeks with a weekly turning of your soil it should be very warm almost hot in the middle and if successful it is ready to go.

Bree Avalon