Looking for a free way to enhance the nutrients in your garden? According to a press release from Southside Soil and Water Conservation, one can do that by using a compost bin and making use of certain scraps.

The release went on to say, “To begin, find the right compost bin for the area you live in. You can create your own bin or buy one. Combine materials that are rich in carbon and nitrogen such as, carbon-rich (brown): fall leaves, straw/hay, dead flowers, egg shells, pine needles and nitrogen-rich (Green): grass clippings, animal manures, plantbased food scraps, lawn and garden weeds.”

Layer the materials in the bin in the order of carbon-rich (brown), nitrogen-rich (green), a thin layer of potting soil, carbon-rich (brown). Moisten the layers every now and then, but do not overwater.

Every few weeks turn the pile with a shovel to keep materials rotated. Continue to water to keep materials moist.

“Keeping a lid on the compost bin will help to keep out unwanted pests,” the release cited.

According to the release you should not compost meat, bones, fish scrap, oil, grease, fats and dairy products.

Benefits to using a compost bin include being able to recycle your kitchen and yard waste, reducing landfill waste and bringing in good organisms for the soil while adding organic matter.

Southside Soil and Water Conservation District serves Charlotte and Lunenburg County.