GARDEN IDEAS
Composting
Composting is becoming an art form these days! But to create a good compost heap that will be useful for potting later on, it doesn't need to be difficult, time-consuming, or expensive.
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Build your own by creating two bins. To make one bin, place 4 posts in the ground firmly. Then using any bits of wood you have available, nail slats between the posts leaving a few inches between each to allow the contents to get enough air circulation. Do this on three sides, leaving the front side open.
Build another bin as and when you can but definitely before the first one has filled up!
Fill the bin with vegetable peelings and all garden waste. Layer the waste so that it rots down properly. If you have lots of grass clippings, use some for mulching if you can, or just put a 6 inch (15cm) or so layer of clippings on the heap and wait to put the rest on until another layer of other waste has been added.
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Throw dead leaves and other dry matter, such as sand, between wet layers. By carefully filling the bin, you won't have to turn it regularly as is usually suggested.
If you really don't have time to create your own system, try products available in your local garden centre or online: Amazon have one of course:
Plug Composter Wood Composter Kit 100x100x70cm Composter
When the first bin is full, pack it down as much as you can then cover with grass clippings and some soil from the garden. Water and leave to break down. The water helps the heap to warm up and speeds up the rotting process.
Cover with a piece of old carpet or similar material to help keep it warm and working.
Then start filling your second composting bin. Follow the same process. By the time the second one is filled, start digging out the contents of the first one; it should be ready, depending on the size and length of time it took to fill.
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If you aren't turning your heap regularly, you may find some material hasn't broken down entirely. Pick these bits out and add them to the heap when you re-start it, or to the other bin if you have space.
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The rich soil you dig out can be used to start small plants in the greenhouse, spread onto a tired part of your veggie patch, or simply used to mulch around your favourite shrubs.
Compost can be used in many ways and is a great way of recycling naturally. You don't have to be growing vegetable crops to warrant a rich supply of soil.