How to Compost in Vermont

Composting is a convenient way to turn decomposing materials already in the yard or home into homemade soil. Compost can improve plant health, garden soil structure and water drainage while helping to prevent plant diseases. According to the Composting Association of Vermont, composting helps to reduce chemical and other hazardous materials from entering the water supply. With a few household items and a composting bin, you can create nutrient-rich soil for your Vermont garden.

Concrete blocks
Composting bin (optional)
Nitrogen-rich organics
Oxygen-rich organics
Tarp
Rake
Garden hose

Instructions

- 1
  Construct a composting bin, which should be approximately 4 feet across and 3 to 4 feet high. One of the easier ways to make a composting bin is to stack concrete blocks on four sides to create a holding bin. Alternatively, a composting bin can be purchased at most garden centers or from one of the many Vermont composting companies.
- 2
  Place nitrogen-rich materials such as grass cuttings, and fruit and vegetable scraps into the composting bin. Add oxygen-rich materials such as fallen leaves, shredded newspaper and hay to the bin as well. Do not add meat or dairy products to the bin.
- 3
  Water the bin every few days to keep it moist. If you built a bin yourself, cover it with a tarp to keep out rain.
- 4
  Mix the compost inside of the bin with a large rake every two to three days to keep the mixture aerated and to promote faster development of the compost.
- 5
  Continue to water and mix the compost for three to four weeks, which is when ready-to-use composting soil should be ready.

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Soil