Understand how the compost heap is structured

Find a sheltered place for your compost heap

e.g. next to a wall or fence and in the shade. Ideally you create a separate space with pallets. Should be a bit away of your home because of the smell.

Loosen the ground with a fork

Mark out the area for your compost heap with a spade

It has to be at least 1m wide and 1m long.

Lay down the first layer of rough material

Like branches, mielie stalks, cabbage stalks and hedge cuttings. The layer should be about 20 cm high.

Add a layer of brown material

Like dead leaves, dead plants and dry grass cuttings. This layer should be 15cm high.

Add a layer of green material

like grass cuttings, green leaves and kitchen waste. This layer should be 15 cm high.

Add a thin layer of manure

2-3 cm high

Add a layer of mature compost or healthy soil

5 -7cm

Optional: Add 2 cups of bone meal and handfuls of gypsum or wood ash

Water each layer well as you go

Keep on repeating these layers until the heap is 1 to 1,5m high.

After setting up the compost heap, water it regularly.

Turn the heap over with a fork every 2 to 4 weeks as this will speed up the process

After 6-12 weeks your compost it ready

The compost should be dark brown and crumbly.

Keep the heap covered with a breathable material

like shade cloth. In winter, cover with plastic to protect it from too much rain.

Use your compost for planting!