Start a Fall Compost Pile

Posted by Jamie McIntosh Oct 23, 2008

When you have as many deciduous trees in your yard as I do, raking can feel like bailing out a sinking boat with a coffee mug. I’m sure more than one neighbor has chuckled or shook his head in dismay at the sight of my frantic daily raking efforts, as thousands of leaves flutter down around me like a ticker tape parade. I can’t let up however, as the new grass seed we planted this autumn is growing like gangbusters in response to the fall rains.

This combination of fall leaves and weekly grass clippings is just what my compost bins need to get cooking over the winter. I had used up the last of my black gold some months ago, and I’m eager to replenish the stockpile for next year’s garden.

If you’re waiting for Santa to bring you a compost bin, consider composting methods that work without a bin. Don’t dump yard waste into storm drains, as its decomposition can take up oxygen in local waterways. Better yet, if you haven’t started composting, donate your garden waste to someone who does. Maybe you’ll be repaid next year on the National “Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor’s Porch” Day.