The good thing about composting at home is that you can easily keep your compost active by attending to some basic techniques.

1. Balance the ingredients

The primary objective for a good compost pile is to keep a balance of materials so that it remains active. If there is too much of either the high-carbon ingredients (dry ingredients) or the high-nitrogen ingredients (green/wet ingredients), your compost will eventually cool down and die. Remember that a compost is a combination of different types of organic matter. In order for it to continue breaking down into loam, a variety of materials must be added on a continuing basis to your compost heap. Some experts say a ratio of 3 parts dry to 1 part wet is the most effective. But using your own judgement to keep the mixture damp but not soggy will produce great results.

Because materials break down at different rates, over time, some ingredients in the compost heap may eventually dominate the others, so it is important to continue to replenish your composting bin and check it frequently.

2. Select the right composting bin

The right bin will help you maintain your compost pile. Find the right fit for your composting needs and your style of composting. Do you need an enclosed bin to keep critters, etc out? Are you going to turn your heap manually or would a tumbler type be better suited to you? It may help if you choose the location before selecting a bin.

3. Dampen and don't soak

Over-soaking is a serious problem for your compost. Be sure not to drown the compost heap to the point that it becomes a soggy mess. Too much water kills the microbes needed to keep the composting process going. Correcting a soggy compost pile quickly is important in protecting its viability. It should be like a damp sponge - not a soggy one that water can be wrung out of.

4. Bacteria needs air

Aeration is the other partner with ample moisture in your composting bin. If you provide your compost with enough air, the bacteria that breaks down the materials into humus will thrive.This can be accomplished by adding material such as straw or wood chips as these keep the pile from compacting. The other option is to turn the pile on a regular basis.

5. Check the temperature

There is an ideal temperature for composting. With the right combination of materials, air and moisture, the compost heap will maintain this temperature. Have a thermometer handy everyday when you inspect your composting bin. If possible, find a thermometer that is specifically made for composting purposes.

If you keep these 5 basics in mind, your compost will continue to thrive and you will always have plenty of compost to feed your garden and product the lush plants you desire.