|
Experienced gardeners know the value of compost.
It envigorates soil, adding organic matter and vital nutrients.
Fortunately, making first-rate compost is easy – especially
if you have a Mantis ComposT-Twin, the only drum composter with
twin bins. Just follow these simple directions:
Location, Location, Location
Place your Mantis ComposT-Twin in a location that
is preferably shady and out-of-the-way but still convenient to your
kitchen and garden.
Assemble Ingredients
The secret to great compost is a balance of green
matter (i.e., fresh organic matter high in nitrogen, such as grass
clippings and vegetable wastes) and brown matter (i.e., dry organic
matter high in carbon, such as fallen leaves, straw, etc.). Your
compost material also needs air and water.
These Things Do Not
Belong in a Compost Pile:
 |
Bones, meats, dairy
products, or any products that contain animal fats. |
|
Dog or cat waste. |
|
Invasive plants (such
as ivy and morning glory vines), poisonous plants (including
poison oak and poison ivy), or invasive weeds. Check with your
County Extension Office for recommendations. |
|
Any non-organic materials
such as plastics or synthetic fibers. |
Chop Ingredients Before Adding
In a "cooking" compost mixture, billions of microorganisms
chew up organic matter, converting it to dark, rich humus. The smaller
the pieces, the faster this process takes place.
Mix and "Cook"
Turn the ComposT-Twin chamber daily to provide the
air necessary to "cook" the compost.
Add Water
As with all living things, bacteria need moisture
to thrive. Add water, if needed, to keep the pile moist but not
soggy.
Here's to great composting! |
