Compost is often called “black gold” for gardeners — and for good reason! 🌱 It’s rich in nutrients, improves soil structure, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. The best part? You can make compost right at home using kitchen and garden waste. 💪🏡
If you live in a city and have limited space, don’t worry. This guide will show you how to easily make compost in small spaces like balconies, patios, or backyards.
🌿 Why Make Compost at Home?
- ✅ Reduces household waste
- 💰 Saves money on fertilizers
- 🌾 Enriches your soil naturally
- 🦠 Encourages healthy microbial activity
- 🌎 Eco-friendly and sustainable
👉 Also Read: Vertical Garden Ideas for Apartment Balconies
🛠️ What You Need to Make Compost
🍂 1. A Compost Bin or Container
Choose one that fits your space:
- Plastic or metal bin with a lid
- DIY wooden crate
- Old bucket with drilled holes
📍 Place it in a dry, shaded spot with good airflow.
🥬 2. Green & Brown Materials
You need two types of waste:
🌿 Greens (Nitrogen-rich)
- Fruit & veggie scraps
- Coffee grounds
- Tea bags
- Grass clippings
🍁 Browns (Carbon-rich)
- Dry leaves
- Cardboard
- Newspaper (shredded)
- Egg cartons
🥗 A good compost has a 2:1 ratio of browns to greens.
💧 3. Water
Moisture helps break down materials faster.
The compost should feel like a damp sponge — not soaked, not dry.
🌬️ 4. Air
Oxygen is essential!
Mix or turn the pile once a week with a stick or garden fork to keep it aerated.
🧪 How to Start Composting – Step-by-Step
1️⃣ Add Browns First
Start your compost pile with a layer of dry leaves, cardboard, or paper at the bottom.
2️⃣ Add Greens on Top
Layer kitchen scraps and green waste over the browns.
3️⃣ Alternate Layers
Keep layering greens and browns.
Too many greens = smelly.
Too many browns = slow process.
⚖️ Balance is key!
4️⃣ Add Water
Lightly sprinkle water if the pile looks dry.
Don’t overdo it — soggy compost = bad smell!
5️⃣ Turn the Pile Weekly
Use a stick, small shovel, or even your hands (with gloves).
This introduces oxygen and speeds up the breakdown.
⏳ How Long Does It Take?
With proper care, your compost will be ready in 2 to 3 months.
Finished compost is:
- Dark brown
- Crumbly
- Earthy-smelling 🌱
⚠️ What NOT to Compost:
🚫 Avoid these items:
- Meat, dairy, or oily food
- Pet waste
- Diseased plants
- Plastic or synthetic materials
❌ These can attract pests or slow decomposition.
🌼 How to Use Homemade Compost
- Mix it into your garden soil or planter boxes
- Use it as mulch on top of pots
- Add it to raised beds or balcony gardens
- Boost seed-starting mix
💡 Your plants will love the natural nutrients!
👉 Also Read: Beginner Urban Gardening: A Simple Guide
✅ Final Tips:
✔️ Chop large scraps into smaller pieces
✔️ Keep a small compost bucket in your kitchen
✔️ If it smells bad — add more browns
✔️ If it’s too dry — add water or more greens
✔️ Stick to the weekly turning schedule!