Tips for the Lazy Gardener: Composting in Place

An Easier Way to Compost and Build Nutrient-Rich Planting Beds

Composting food scraps that would otherwise end up in the landfill is a great way to become more environmentally friendly. Not only does it break down biodegradable vegetative waste, but it provides you with a fantastic organic soil amendment that will make your flowers and vegetables grow well and be more productive. Sometimes, however, setting up a composting system can be time-consuming and frustrating. Remembering to turn the composting pile every so often to aerate it and trying to keep critters away from the tasty treats you add to the pile are two examples.

If you're lazy like me, finding an easier way to compost just makes sense. It gives you a sense of accomplishment without all the work. One of the easiest ways to compost is to compost in place. In other words, add the scrap material to the area where the compost will eventually be used. This method works well for building new planting beds, amending vegetable beds not currently in use, and larger planters.

Here are six steps to successfully compost in place:

Lazy Composting Step 1: Clear the area where you want to create a planting space. Remove sticks, rocks and other objects that won't break down easily. You can leave grass in place as the process of composting will kill it.

Lazy Composting Step 2: Spread a layer of compostable scraps evenly over planting area. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will compost. Get into the habit of cutting up larger pieces (for example, banana skins) as you add them to your kitchen compost bucket.

Lazy Composting Step 3: Sprinkle dried cayenne pepper powder over scraps. This will help to deter wildlife from helping themselves to the buffet.

Lazy Composting Step 4: Finish building your new bed. Add layers of used coffee grounds (free at your local Starbucks), shredded newspaper, wood chips, or shredded leaves. Top with a layer of topsoil and a sprinkling of cayenne pepper.