ESC Regulations and Permits

SWPPP Checklist for Construction Sites

Storm Drain Labelling

Ohio Storm Water Taskforce

Stream Stewardship

Grass Carp

Contact Us

 

 

 

Composting

Composting is a simple way for homeowners to handle their yardwaste and to create a great free soil amendment. There are lots of great resources out there that can provide great information about why you should compost, how to compost, what to compost, etc. Instead of reinventing the wheel we have decided to bring links to some of these resources together for you to view.

What is compost?

    Compost is one of nature's best mulches and soil amendments, and you can use it instead of commercial fertilizers. You can make it without spending a cent. Compost loosens clay soils, improves soil fertility and stimulates healthy root development in plants.

How Do I Compost?

Don’t worry, the hard work is done by bacteria and other decomposers! The main thing you need to keep in mind are the four things your little compost micro buddies will need to do their work: air, water, warmth and a good balanced diet. Gather your materials (see below) and break them into small pieces. The smaller the pieces the quicker you will get finished compost. You can put the materials in a compost bin or just make a free standing pile. Make sure to keep the compost pile damp (not soaking wet), and occasionally mix the pile to add oxygen,. As the decomposers get to work, the pile should start to heat up.

What Can I Use it For?

Once decomposition is complete and the materials have broken down you can use the compost. Most plants, especially trees will benefit from using your compost to top dress the soil. Larger materials can be used as mulch.
What Can I Compost? Almost any organic material is suitable. The pile needs a balanced diet or mix of carbon-rich materials, or "browns," and nitrogen-rich materials, or "greens." Florida has a great listing of what is compostable and what is not.

    There are several great guides out there that can tell you all you need to know about compositng:

  • The “Yardwaste at Home Handbook” from The Hamilton County Dept of Environmental Services explains composting and bin types.
  • Compost Guide

Compost Bins...?

There are several options for compost bins: you can make your own or purchase one or go without a bin a create a compost pile or heap.

Build Your Own Bin:
You can create a bin from cinder blocks, wood, chicken wire and many other materials. Plans are available on the internet for making various styles of bins:

Purchase A Bin:
There are many outlets for compost bins. Many of the garden catalogues sell bins such as:

Other Online Retailers include:

You can also ask your favorite garden center or nursery if they sell bins or if they can get one for you.