Tips from the backyard

When we think of fall, colorful leaves, crisp air, and cooler temperatures come to mind. For composting enthusiasts, fall is also the best time of year to build nutrient-rich compost. With an abundance of leaves, garden waste, and seasonal food scraps, autumn offers everything you need to create a thriving compost pile.

The GEOBIN Composter makes it simple to take advantage of this seasonal bounty. Here is why fall composting works so well, what materials to add, and how to keep your compost pile healthy through the colder months.

Successful composting relies on the right balance of carbon-rich “brown” materials and nitrogen-rich “green” materials. The GEOBIN Composter is designed with this in mind, working best with a 3:1 carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.

Fall naturally provides this balance:

• Dry leaves = Browns (carbon)
• Garden and kitchen waste = Greens (nitrogen)

This combination makes autumn the perfect time to collect and layer materials that will break down into rich compost for next year’s garden.

What to Compost in Fall

If you are wondering what to compost in fall, here are the best materials to add to your GEOBIN® Composter:

• Garden waste – Clear out spent plants and vines that are disease-free, then chop them into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition.
• Pumpkins and gourds – After Halloween, chop or smash pumpkins before adding them. They are nutrient-rich and decompose quickly.
• Plant cuttings – Use fall pruning scraps to add structure and airflow to your pile.
• Food scraps – Continue adding fruit and vegetable waste, especially seasonal items like apple peels and pumpkin innards.

Simple Tips for Fall Composting Success

To get the most out of your compost pile this season, keep these fall composting tips in mind:

1. Save extra leaves. Bag and store them for later use when browns are harder to find.
2. Watch moisture levels. Autumn rains can make compost too wet. Aim for the consistency of a squeezed-out sponge.
3. Alternate layers. Always switch between greens and browns to maintain balance and airflow.
4. Turn the pile regularly. Aeration speeds up decomposition and prevents unpleasant odors.

Get Started with Fall Composting

Understanding what to compost in fall can take your composting efforts to the next level. With the GEOBIN® Composter and the abundance of seasonal materials, you can create nutrient-rich compost that will be ready for your spring and summer garden.