How do I start my compost pile?

Make sure your scraps are veggie only. You will need to add green to the pile, like cut grass to round out what you have in there. If the leaves are shredded first they will break down quicker, otherwise it will take a lot longer to decompose. Mix they whole lot up and mix each time you add to it or the top will not decompose in the heat that is built up inside. It will need occasional watering. I am writing this from what I have heard from others, as we can't do compost containers in my neighborhood. I do have a pile in my garden corner that my squash covers of shredded leaves and cut grass that I use in the spring when I till the soil, but it is not really big enough for anyone to notice.

any thing green or once green can be composted. Don't put anything grease in the composer pile. The pile will need to be stirred occasionally. There are also tumblers that will break down the organic quicker than a pile can...or you can make your tumbler. If you have a neighbor who has an established compost pile ...the beneficial bacteria should transfer to your new pile ask for a decent shovel full.

There are lots of websites for beginning composters. Try eartheasy.com/grow_compost.html or https://compostguide.com. I just finished my first batch of compost from kitchen scraps, grass clippings and leaves. No meat. No dairy. No wheat. I stirred it every day and made sure it didn't get too dry - or too wet. It worked great in about 6 weeks. I have lovely organic soil now to add to my garden.