Build a static compost pile

​Another easy way to compost at home is to make a “static” or cool compost pile. You just need a few basic ingredients: browns (dry leaves, straw), greens (food scraps), air and water. You can get started by setting up a static compost pile in the corner of your yard.

Materials

• Carbon source: Dry leaves, shredded paper or straw
• Nitrogen source: Your food scraps such as fruit, veggies, coffee grounds, egg shells, etc.
• Water: Build your pile near a water source 
• Air: Turn your pile once every few weeks 
• Soil 
• Tarp or something to cover the pile
• Compost bin (optional)​

Directions

1. Find a location in a shady corner of your yard, away from your house. There will be bugs visiting your pile. 
2. Place your carbon source on the bottom of what will be your pile. 
3. Place a layer of your nitrogen source on top of the carbon.  
4. Place a thin layer of soil on top of the nitrogen source. 
5. Repeat layers 2x. 
6. Add water so your pile is moist but not sopping wet. 
7. Cover with a tarp. 
8. Every week transfer your kitchen scraps to the compost pile and layer with your carbon source. Top with a thin layer of soil and add a bit of water. Recover with tarp. 
9. Once every few weeks, turn the pile with a pitchfork or a shovel. 

After a few months, start a new pile so the old pile can “finish”. Once you can no longer identify any of the food scraps and your pile looks like very dark soil, you can begin using it in your garden or landscape. 

*NOTE: To keep rodents away, do not compost meat or dairy products in your backyard. ​

Need more resources? 

• Backyard static composting guide from the city of Oceanside.

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