Ahh! The question of questions – how to make great compost! Having spoken to many gardeners about this exact topic, there seem to be a lot of answers – some do nothing at all but wait, and some use a bit of science, but here are some basics:

- There should be bare soil under your compost heap, to allow soil organisms to move into the compost. Above this bare soil, place a layer of twigs to allow air circulation. Then build up your heap in 6 inch layers, nitrogen rich layer ( i.e. green materials such as grass clippings) then a carbon rich layer (i.e. brown material such as shredded newspaper or bark_)If possible add some soil or manure between layers too , as this greatly speeds up the process.

- Avoid adding pruning clippings if possible as these take a long time to break down – I have a separate bin for these. If you have to add them, make sure they are not diseased and are well shredded.

- Adding nitrogen, as either an artificial fertiliser, or as a manure (manure has the added advantage of having huge amounts of beneficial micro organisms) will speed up the process.

- Turn the compost regularly to avoid compaction and to increase aeration – I have found this to be the answer to my composting problems!

- Cover the compost – it should be damp but not wet! Water it if necessary!

- Smell the compost!!!If it smells of rotten eggs, it needs air, so turn it! If it smells like ammonia, there is too much green material, so add some brown material!

- Add lime to counteract acidity- apply a heavy-ish dusting every 12” or so.

- Heat will speed up the process also – compost is always easier to make in the summer. Some gardeners cover the heap with black polythene in the winter.

I hope this helps – do keep in touch! I’d love to hear what works for you.