Choose a compost bin or pile location with good drainage and partial shade
Add brown materials such as dry leaves, straw, shredded paper, and cardboard
Add green materials such as fruit scraps, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings
Chop or shred large materials into smaller pieces
Keep a balanced mix of browns and greens
Moisten the pile so it is damp like a wrung-out sponge
Turn or mix the compost regularly to add air
Add more browns if the pile is too wet or smelly
Add more greens if the pile is too dry or not breaking down
Avoid meat, dairy, oils, and cooked foods
Avoid pet waste and diseased plants
Continue adding materials and turning until the compost becomes dark, crumbly, and earthy
Use the finished compost in garden beds, pots, or around plants