Grass Cuttings

Grass cuttings are the traditional part of a compost heap, but for good recyclable compost, you should add in small amounts and gradually over time. If you have lots of grass cuttings then you may need to also keep a regular compost heap going for the extra cuttings. Hedge clippings and fallen leaves are also good items.

Leaves

Leaves help speed up the composting process so should be added regularly. They are a valuable source of nutrients and minerals.

Kitchen Waste

Fruit peels, fruit cores and pulp can be added to your compost mixture, but take longer to break down than other types of fruit waste. Chop them up first to help them breakdown quicker.

Keep adding a variety of fruit and vegetable waste into your compost mixture for the best results.

Although meat scraps are compostable, these can attract rats or other vermin, so should generally be avoided.

Personal & Household Items

The basic rule of composting is: if it rots, it's usable. Household waste such as vacuum dust, tumble dryer fluff, shredded newspapers and pet bedding are all suitable. You should also make sure that you add more fibrous materials such as offcuts of carpet, shredded paper and scrunched up cardboard to soak up some of the liquid generated by the composting process.

Compost Activators

There are a number of products available which can speed up the composting process. These can be purchased in powder or liquid form.

If you'd rather create your own activators, then you can add small amounts of soil, which already contains suitable microbes to help the compost process. Lime powder, seaweed and even urine are all good additives and help add the correct types of nutrients.