{"id":15081,"date":"2026-08-14T17:18:51","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T20:18:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=15081"},"modified":"2026-08-18T03:31:27","modified_gmt":"2026-08-18T06:31:27","slug":"composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/","title":{"rendered":"Composting 101: How to Start Composting"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>A compost pile<\/strong> needs 3 things: carbon-rich brown materials, nitrogen-rich green materials, and consistent moisture.<br>\u2022 <strong>Your pile<\/strong> should be at least 3 feet \u00d7 3 feet \u00d7 3 feet to decompose materials efficiently.<br>\u2022 <strong>Most compost<\/strong> is ready in 2 to 4 months when you turn the pile every 1 to 2 weeks and keep it damp.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re new to gardening, learning how to compost can feel intimidating with its ratios, temperatures, and turning schedules. It&#8217;s simpler than it sounds.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To start a compost pile, layer brown materials (dry leaves, cardboard) with green materials (food scraps, grass) on bare ground, keep it damp, and turn it every 1 or 2 weeks. Below, we&#8217;ll walk you through every step. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And if you&#8217;d rather invest your time in composting than mowing the lawn, LawnStarter connects you with <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=mowing\">lawn mowing pros<\/a> who can take that task off your hands.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-415f72ad-0b12-4bac-bb3c-e54ced425467\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#0-why-you-should-try-composting\" style=\"\">Why You Should Try Composting<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#3-how-to-start-a-compost-pile\" style=\"\">How to Start a Compost Pile<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#4-what-to-compost\" style=\"\">What to Compost<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#5-what-not-to-compost\" style=\"\">What Not to Compost<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#6-how-to-maintain-your-compost-pile\" style=\"\">How to Maintain Your Compost Pile<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#7-different-ways-to-compost\" style=\"\">Different Ways to Compost<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#10-how-to-tell-when-your-compost-is-ready\" style=\"\">How to Tell When Your Compost Is Ready<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#11-when-to-start-a-compost-pile\" style=\"\">When to Start a Compost Pile<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/#12-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-why-you-should-try-composting\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why You Should Try Composting<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Composting benefits your lawn and garden:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>For lawns:<\/strong> Compost adds nutrients and, unlike fertilizer, it also rebuilds soil structure. In a University of Wisconsin\u2013Madison study, compost loosened the soil and boosted its <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1002\/its2.101\">water-holding capacity<\/a> by about 50%, so treated lawns could go an extra day between waterings.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>For the environment:<\/strong> The U.S. Department of Agriculture <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usda.gov\/foodwaste\/faqs\">estimates<\/a> that 30% to 40% of the food supply becomes waste and ends up in landfills.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>For your wallet:<\/strong>&nbsp;The EPA estimates <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/land-research\/estimating-cost-food-waste-american-consumers\">food waste costs<\/a> the average American $728 per year. Turn that waste into valuable <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/types-soil-amendments\/\">soil amendments<\/a> instead.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/statistics\/us-composting-stats-policies\/\">Beyond the Bin: U.S. Composting Stats, Policies, and Roadblocks<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"1-what-is-composting\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Composting?<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Basically, organic composting is a natural process in which a pile of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/14-things-you-need-to-know-about-yard-waste\/\">yard waste<\/a> and kitchen scraps decomposes into organic matter we call <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-compost\/\">compost<\/a>. Mix the right ingredients in the right proportions, and bacteria, fungi, and earthworms will produce a material praised as &#8220;black gold.&#8221; This is added to soil to improve its structure, fertility, and water-holding capacity.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"2-how-does-composting-happen\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Does Composting Happen?<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The composting process requires 5 components:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Carbon (C)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Nitrogen (N)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Moisture<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Oxygen (O2)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Microorganisms<\/p><\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With moisture and oxygen present, these <a href=\"http:\/\/compost.css.cornell.edu\/microorg.html\" target=\"_blank\">microorganisms<\/a> break the materials down into soft, crumbly humus as the pile shrinks. \u201cThe volume of the finished compost will be 50% or less than the volume of inputs\u201d, says Adam Michaelides, <a href=\"https:\/\/ccetompkins.org\/staff\/adam-michaelides\">compost educator<\/a> at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/hortnews.extension.iastate.edu\/faq\/how-long-does-it-take-compost-pile-break-down\" target=\"_blank\">well-managed compost pile<\/a>, turned every 1 to 2 weeks, could be ready in 2 to 4 months. Piles that are not turned can take 6 months to a year.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"3-how-to-start-a-compost-pile\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Start a Compost Pile<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learning how to start a compost pile is easier than it looks. The simplest method is a pile directly on bare ground. No bin required.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose a suitable spot: Easy to access year-round, well-drained, near a water source, and in partial sun or shade. Avoid concrete or paved surfaces, which block drainage and earthworm access.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your pile should follow the recommended compost pile size and be at least 3 feet \u00d7 3 feet \u00d7 3 feet. Anything smaller won&#8217;t generate enough internal heat to break down materials efficiently.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Follow these steps:<\/strong><\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Build a base layer of coarse sticks and stalks<\/strong> 8 inches deep, criss-crossed. This creates airflow under the pile and prevents waterlogging.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Add alternating layers of brown and green materials.<\/strong> Think of it as 3 buckets of dry leaves for every 1 bucket of food scraps. Layer them <a href=\"https:\/\/ccetompkins.org\/resources\/compost-lasagna-layering-for-easy-compost\">like a lasagna<\/a>: Browns, then greens, then browns again.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Incorporate a nitrogen source<\/strong> to kick-start decomposition. A handful of finished compost or nitrogen fertilizer works well.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Moisten the pile.<\/strong> The materials should feel like a damp sponge \u2014 wet enough that you can feel the water, but not so wet that you can squeeze water out.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Turn the pile every 1 to 2 weeks<\/strong> using a pitchfork if you want compost in a few months. This moves cooler outer material to the hot center and gives microorganisms the oxygen they need. If you\u2019re not in a hurry, skip this step and let the pile work on its own.<\/p><\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Michaelides recommends shaping the browns \u201chigher on the sides than the middle to make a shallow bowl or nest\u201d, then layering greens inside the bowl of browns in 1-inch to 2-inch layers. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cAlways end with a layer of browns so that no food scraps show \u2014 on the top, sides, or bottom.\u201d<\/p>    <h2 id=\"4-what-to-compost\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Compost<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/composting-illustration-update-2.jpg\" alt=\"Infographic showing brown (carbon) and green (nitrogen) materials you can compost\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographic showing brown (carbon) and green (nitrogen) materials you can compost. Photo Credit: Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What often trips up composting beginners is what they leave out. Many first-timers assume a pile of only food scraps in the yard counts as composting, says Michaelides. &#8220;More times than not, this practice results in a stinky mess that attracts pests and bothers neighbors.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;One important thing to know about composting,&#8221; he says, &#8220;is that you need to incorporate &#8216;browns&#8217; (dry, brittle materials usually from the yard) in addition to food scraps.&#8221; <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most materials in compost piles can be classified as brown or green:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Material Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What They Provide<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Examples<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Brown (Carbon)<\/strong><\/td><td>Energy for microorganisms, fluffy structure<\/td><td>Dry leaves, branches, sawdust, shredded newspaper, pine needles<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Green (Nitrogen)<\/strong><\/td><td>Proteins and amino acids for decomposition<\/td><td>Food scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings, vegetable peels<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Brown materials are carbon-rich<\/strong> items that provide energy to microorganisms and create the pile&#8217;s structure. Typical brown items are wood-based or fibrous: dry leaves, branches, stems, sawdust, tree bark, shredded newspaper, corn stalks, wood ash, and pine needles.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Green materials are nitrogen-based<\/strong> waste materials that supply proteins for decomposition. Food scraps, coffee grounds, green leaves, and grass clippings are excellent nitrogen-rich green materials.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Aim for roughly 3 parts browns to 1 part greens by volume. Guidance ranges from 2:1 to 3:1 depending on source, so don\u2019t worry about hitting it exactly.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"5-what-not-to-compost\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Not to Compost<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid adding animal products and fats to your compost. The 3 most important categories to keep out: <\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Material Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why to Exclude<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Examples<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Animal byproducts<\/strong><\/td><td>Create foul odors and invite pests<\/td><td>Dairy products, bones, meat, fish<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Human and pet waste<\/strong><\/td><td>Introduces harmful pathogens that survive most home compost temperatures<\/td><td>Cat or dog litter<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Foods rich in fat and oil<\/strong><\/td><td>They block oxygen, killing the microbes, and can attract pests<\/td><td>Mayonnaise, peanut butter, salad dressing, or vegetable oils<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other types of waste to avoid:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Garden waste treated with pesticides<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Garden waste from sick plants<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Weeds<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Plastics (even biodegradable ones)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Pressure-treated wood<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Leaves or twigs from black walnut trees<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Raspberry brambles<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> To <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu\/vegetable\/files\/2010\/10\/E-326.-Easy-Gardening-Composting-to-Kill-Weed-Seeds.pdf#page=2\">kill most weed seeds<\/a>, materials must reach 140 degrees for 1 to 3 hours. If your pile won&#8217;t get this hot, keep weeds out. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related: <\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-can-you-put-in-compost-bin\/\">What Can You Put in a Compost Bin?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-keep-pests-out-of-compost\/\">How to Keep Pests out of Your Compost Bin<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"6-how-to-maintain-your-compost-pile\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Maintain Your Compost Pile<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on 2 key habits to keep your pile active and healthy.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Manage the pile structure:<\/strong> Add browns every time you add food scraps. If you&#8217;re turning the pile, do it every 1 to 2 weeks with a pitchfork.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Manage moisture levels:<\/strong> Your pile should feel like a damp sponge. Cover it during heavy rain and add water during dry spells.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How do you know the pile is working properly?<strong> <\/strong>Michaelides says to observe the pile size. If the compost works, you should notice the pile shrinking down over time.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cAlso, use your nose. Are there unpleasant odors? If so, probably not enough browns,\u201d he says. Temperature inside the compost is another clue. \u201cDuring the warm months, active compost will be hot or at least warmer than the ambient temperature.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Troubleshooting common problems:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Pile not heating up: Add more nitrogen-rich green materials or chop materials into smaller pieces.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Too many brown materials: Add a handful of nitrogen fertilizer.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Bad smell:<strong> <\/strong>Turn the pile for better air circulation, or add dry brown materials if it&#8217;s too wet.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Additional tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Chop materials: Smaller pieces decompose faster.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Add calcium:&nbsp;Pulverized eggshells boost calcium in finished compost.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Bury food waste:&nbsp;Don&#8217;t leave it at the top where it can attract pests.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Keep the ratio steady: Add materials as they come, staying near 3 parts browns to 1 part greens, and avoid dumping large amounts at once.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"7-different-ways-to-compost\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Different Ways to Compost<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnstarterdev.wpenginepowered.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/AdobeStock_87120274-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Compost bins in yard made of wood\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Compost bins in yard made of wood. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/compost-bins\/87120274\" target=\"_blank\">alisonhancock<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Method<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Location<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best For<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Piling <\/strong><\/td><td>Outdoor<\/td><td>Large yards with space<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Open bins<\/strong><\/td><td>Outdoor<\/td><td>Easy access and turning<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Enclosed bins<\/strong><\/td><td>Outdoor<\/td><td>Reducing sight and smell<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Tumblers<\/strong><\/td><td>Outdoor<\/td><td>Easy turning and fast results<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Bokashi<\/strong><\/td><td>Indoor or Outdoor<\/td><td>Fermenting meat and dairy scraps<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Vermicomposting<\/strong><\/td><td>Indoor<\/td><td>Apartments and small spaces<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 id=\"8-outdoor-composting-methods\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Outdoor Composting Methods<\/h3>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Piling<\/strong>: Heap and turn periodically. Full sun speeds it up.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Composting bins<\/strong>:&nbsp;Open bins are partial structures that ventilate and give easy access for turning. Enclosed bins use a lid to hide both sight and smell.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Tumblers<\/strong>:&nbsp;A cylindrical enclosed bin with a handle that allows easy turning. The simplest way to make batch compost.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Bokashi composting<\/strong>:&nbsp;Uses fermentation instead of heat and oxygen. Layer scraps (even meat and dairy) with inoculated bran in a sealed bucket, ferment for 2 weeks, then bury in the ground to finish. Good for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/gardening\/plant-composition-for-small-space-gardening\/\">small space gardening<\/a>. <\/p><\/li> <\/ol>    <h3 id=\"9-indoor-composting-methods\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indoor Composting Methods<\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Vermicomposting<\/strong>, or worm composting, uses red wiggler worms in a specialized indoor bin to break down kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-manage-earthworm-castings\/\">earthworm castings<\/a>. It&#8217;s the best method for apartment dwellers, and the finished castings are excellent for houseplants and container gardens.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-compost-bins\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" class=\"text0-black visited:text-black\">5 Best Compost Bins [Reviews]<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"10-how-to-tell-when-your-compost-is-ready\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Tell When Your Compost Is Ready<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Signs your compost is ready (aim for all 4):<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Temperature drops:<\/strong> The pile cools to ambient temperature and no longer heats up after turning.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Color and texture:<\/strong> Material looks and crumbles like dark, rich soil.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Smell:&nbsp;<\/strong>Has a deep, earthy aroma like a forest floor, not rot.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Original materials unrecognizable:<\/strong> You can no longer identify individual scraps.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County recommends the <a href=\"https:\/\/ccetompkins.org\/resources\/compost-testing-for-finished-compost\">jar test<\/a>: Put a couple of inches of compost in a jar, add enough water to make it soggy, and seal it tightly. Open it after a week and smell it right away. Wet earth means it&#8217;s done. Bad odors mean it needs more time.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most compost is ready in 2 to 4 months with regular turning. Cold composting (no turning) needs 6 months to a year or more.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How to use <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/extension.oregonstate.edu\/catalog\/em-9308-how-use-compost-gardens-landscapes\">compost in your yard<\/a>: <\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><span style=\"color: rgb(23, 28, 36);\">Topdress lawns with 1\/8 to 1\/2 inch after spring or fall aeration. <\/span>(Don&#8217;t own an aerator? A <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=aeration\" class=\"underline underline underline-offset-2 decoration-1 decoration-current\/40 hover:decoration-current focus:decoration-current\">LawnStarter aeration pro<\/a> can handle that step before you topdress.)<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><span style=\"color: rgb(23, 28, 36);\">Mix 2-4 inches into garden, flowerbed, and new lawn soil.<\/span><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><span style=\"color: rgb(23, 28, 36);\">Spread 1-4 inches as mulch in gardens and flowerbeds, around trees and shrubs, or on slopes.<\/span><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/guide-topdressing-lawn-grass\/\">Topdressing a Lawn: The Benefits and How to Do It<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"11-when-to-start-a-compost-pile\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to Start a Compost Pile<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Autumn is the best time to start. You&#8217;ll have an abundance of brown materials (fallen leaves, garden debris) ready to go, and the pile will slowly break down over winter into usable compost by spring. (Raking up more leaves than your pile can use? <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter&#8217;s leaf removal pros<\/a> can clear the rest.)<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That said, you can start any time of year. Even in summer, a well-watered pile will decompose quickly.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"12-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17854193388287552\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I Just Start a Compost Pile on the Ground?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, and bare ground is actually the better choice. Setting your pile directly on soil lets earthworms and other beneficial organisms move up into the materials, and it lets excess water drain away instead of pooling.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17854193388282647\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I Lay Compost on Top of Soil?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, that&#8217;s called <strong>topdressing<\/strong>, and it&#8217;s one of the best things you can do for an established lawn or garden bed. Spread a thin layer of finished compost right over the soil and let it work its way down on its own.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17854193388281727\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why Does My Compost Pile Smell Bad?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A well-maintained pile should have an earthy smell. Bad odors usually mean the pile is packed too tight or is too wet. Turn it to get more air circulating, and if it&#8217;s soggy, mix in some dry brown material.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"13-let-lawnstarter-handle-the-rest\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Let LawnStarter Handle the Rest<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compost is one of the best things you can do for your soil, but a few of the steps around it are harder to DIY. Aerating before you topdress the lawn takes equipment most homeowners don&#8217;t own, and because compost is a light feeder, your turf will still want regular fertilization and weed control to look its best.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That&#8217;s where LawnStarter comes in. LawnStarter connects you with vetted local pros for <a class=\"underline underline underline-offset-2 decoration-1 decoration-current\/40 hover:decoration-current focus:decoration-current\" href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=aerationOverseedingPackage\">aeration and overseeding<\/a>, <a class=\"underline underline underline-offset-2 decoration-1 decoration-current\/40 hover:decoration-current focus:decoration-current\" href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=fertilization\">lawn treatment<\/a>, and seasonal <a class=\"underline underline underline-offset-2 decoration-1 decoration-current\/40 hover:decoration-current focus:decoration-current\" href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">leaf removal<\/a>, plus <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=mowing\">mowing and edging<\/a> when you&#8217;d rather spend the weekend on your compost pile than behind a mower. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical mowing costs run $43 to $70 per visit, with instant online quotes for each of the services linked above, including mowing. You do the composting. We&#8217;ll handle the rest.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read Next: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-compost-grass-clippings\/\">How to Compost Grass Clippings: 3 Easy Methods<\/a><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Compost bins in a yard made of wood. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/compost-bin-garden-composting-pile-rotting-313682036\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shutterstock<\/a><\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-8d95254e-faa2-4f49-aab1-269236253ff7\" data-mobilecollapse=\"false\" data-desktopcollapse=\"false\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"false\"> <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion\" style=\"border-color: #f1f1f1; border-top-left-radius: 8px; border-top-right-radius: 8px; border-bottom-left-radius: 8px; border-bottom-right-radius: 8px; \" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-block-\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title-wrap\" style=\"background-color: #f1f1f1;\" aria-controls=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-8d95254e-faa2-4f49-aab1-269236253ff7\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-8d95254e-faa2-4f49-aab1-269236253ff7\" style=\"color: #000000; \">Sources<\/p> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-toggle-wrap right\" style=\"color: #000000;\"><span class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-state-indicator wp-block-ub-chevron-down open\"><\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-expanded=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-content-wrap\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-8d95254e-faa2-4f49-aab1-269236253ff7\">  <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adam Michaelides, program manager of <a href=\"https:\/\/ccetompkins.org\/gardening\/composting\">compost education<\/a> at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Tompkins County. Personal interview.<\/p>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><div class=\"ays-arp-under-posts-container ays-arp-elegant-layout related-posts\" id=\"ays-arp-under-posts-container-15081-6aab3351290ec\"  data-id=\"6aab3351290ec\" data-ratio=\"1\"><h2 class=\"ays-arp-under-posts-container-title\">Related Posts:<\/h2><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"ays-arp-id-6aab3351290ec\" value=\"15081\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-posts\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-header\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/new-homeowners-guide-diy-or-pro\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Homeowner-moving-in-their-new-house-1-768x512.png?wsr\" alt=\"A couple carrying moving boxes toward the entrance of a modern two-story house with several more boxes stacked on the front steps and walkway.\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Homeowner-moving-in-their-new-house-1-768x512.png?wsr\" alt=\"A couple carrying moving boxes toward the entrance of a modern two-story house with several more boxes stacked on the front steps and walkway.\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img ays-arp-under-post-img-mobile\"><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-content\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title-row\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/new-homeowners-guide-diy-or-pro\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  >Just Moved In? A New Homeowner&#039;s Guide...<\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/new-homeowners-guide-diy-or-pro\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><span class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more\">Read more<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-header\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/lawn-care-cost-new-homeowners-guide\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/How-Much-Does-Lawn-Care-Cost-A-New-Homeowners-Budgeting-Guide-768x512.png?wsr\" alt=\"A two-story residential house with a brick exterior and balcony next to a manicured lawn\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/How-Much-Does-Lawn-Care-Cost-A-New-Homeowners-Budgeting-Guide-768x512.png?wsr\" alt=\"A two-story residential house with a brick exterior and balcony next to a manicured lawn\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img ays-arp-under-post-img-mobile\"><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-content\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title-row\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/lawn-care-cost-new-homeowners-guide\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  >How Much Does Lawn Care Cost? A...<\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/lawn-care-cost-new-homeowners-guide\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><span class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more\">Read more<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-header\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-assess-new-lawn\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-To-Assess-Your-New-Lawn-768x512.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"A family of four stands with their backs to the camera on a lush green lawn, arms wrapped around each other, gazing at their newly purchased single-story home beside a \"House for Sale \u2013 Sold\" sign.\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-To-Assess-Your-New-Lawn-768x512.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"A family of four stands with their backs to the camera on a lush green lawn, arms wrapped around each other, gazing at their newly purchased single-story home beside a \"House for Sale \u2013 Sold\" sign.\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img ays-arp-under-post-img-mobile\"><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-content\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title-row\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-assess-new-lawn\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  >Inherited a Lawn? How to Assess Your...<\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-assess-new-lawn\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><span class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more\">Read more<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-header\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/fall-lawn-care-checklist\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><img src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/HEROfallchecklist-SMALL-768x576.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"Illustartive image showing fall leaves and a rake in the background. 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The words \"LawnStarter, your fall lawn care checklist\" are overlayed in the foreground.\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img ays-arp-under-post-img-mobile\"><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-content\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title-row\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/fall-lawn-care-checklist\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  >LawnStarter&#039;s Fall Lawn Care Checklist<\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/fall-lawn-care-checklist\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><span class=\"ays-arp-under-post-read-more\">Read more<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-header\"><div class=\"ays-arp-under-post-img-row\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/straw-over-grass-seed\/\" class=\"ays-arp-under-post-link\"  ><img 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soil.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":52,"featured_media":78832,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[9],"class_list":["post-15081","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-2","tag-lawn-care"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/rsz_shutterstock_313682036-compost-bin-1.jpg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Amanda Shiffler","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/amanda-shiffler\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Composting 101: How to Start Composting<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to start a compost pile in 5 simple steps: what to add, what to avoid, where to put it, and how to 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