Not sure what something is? Tap it to see a picture.

• Garden fork
• Shovel
• Watering can
• Compost bin
• Thermometer

• 1 compost bin
• 1 garden fork
• 1 shovel
• 1 watering can
• 1 thermometer

1. 1.
   Choose a dry, shaded spot near a water source for your compost bin.

   Explain this step more
2. 2.
   Place the compost bin on bare soil to allow microorganisms to enter.

   Explain this step more
3. 3.
   Add a 3-inch layer of coarse materials like straw or small branches to the bottom of the bin.

   Explain this step more
4. 4.
   Alternate layers of green materials (e.g., fruit and vegetable scraps) and brown materials (e.g., dry leaves, shredded paper), each about 3 inches thick.

   Explain this step more
5. 5.
   After adding each layer, moisten it with water to maintain a damp, but not soaking, environment.

   Explain this step more
6. 6.
   Turn the compost with a garden fork every few weeks to aerate and speed up decomposition.

   Explain this step more
7. 7.
   Monitor the compost temperature with a thermometer; it should be between 130°F and 160°F for optimal breakdown.

   Explain this step more
8. 8.
   When the compost is dark and crumbly, and the original materials are unrecognizable, it's ready to use in your garden.

   Explain this step more