How to Compost Using Comfrey

Comfrey is an herb traditionally used to help heal broken bones, wounds and bruises, but it also works as a compost activator in the garden. Roots grow about 6 feet long and bring many different minerals up to the surface. Leaves contain nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus and work to make the compost pile decompose much faster. Combining comfrey leaves with water also makes a liquid fertilizer for plants.

Compost pile or bin with existing compost
Shovel or pitchfork

Instructions

- 1
  Plant about four to six comfrey plants in a garden site near the compost bin. Comfrey grows well in either partial shade or full sun. Plant early in fall or in the spring.
- 2
  Cut leaves in June before the flowers bloom. This is the only harvest during the first year of growth. Every year after, cut leaves when the plant gets 2 feet high and every three to four weeks after, but stop in September to allow for regeneration. Cut the plants to 2 inches above the ground when harvesting leaves.
- 3
  Layer the comfrey leaves on the top of an existing compost pile. Layer more leaves as you add more compost material to the pile.
- 4
  Mix the compost pile using a pitchfork or shovel every three days. The more it is mixed, the faster the material will decompose.
- 5
  Water the pile once in a while to maintain moisture levels, especially in dry, hot weather.

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