Installation & Assembly

Manure
Horse, cow, sheep, and poultry manure’s. They can burn
plants if applied when fresh, so be sure they get well
composted. Manure’s typically contain nitrogen (the
fresher the manure, the more nitrogen it contains) and are
considered a 'green' ingredient. Some manure may
contain weed seeds. Fresh manure’s can get a compost
pile to heat up quickly, and will accelerate the
decomposition of woody materials, autumn leaves, and
other 'browns'.
Straw
Dry straw is a good material for helping to keep a compost
pile aerated, because it tends to create lots of
passageways for air to get into the pile. Be sure to wet
the straw, as it is very slow to decompose otherwise.
Straw is a 'brown' and also requires mixture with 'greens'
to break down quickly.
Weeds and Other Garden Waste
Many types of weeds and old garden plants can be
composted. Avoid weeds that have begun to go to seed,
as seeds may survive the composting process.
Wood Chips and Sawdust
Wood products belong in the 'browns' category, because
they are fairly low in nitrogen. Stir sawdust thoroughly
into the pile or use very thin layers. Coarse wood chips
will very slowly decay, and are probably better used as
mulch.
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