Composting Methods

Home Composting & Plant Care

Now that we know what compost is and how kitchen waste can be recycled, the next step is to choose a method of composting that suits your space and lifestyle. The good news is, you Don't need anything fancy. Nature will do most of the work — you just have to set the stage.

🕳️ 1. Pit Method (Best for backyards or open space)

If you have some land or even a small corner in your garden, this is the easiest way.

How to do it:

  • Dig a pit around 1–2 feet deep and 2–3 feet wide.
  • Add a layer of dry leaves at the bottom.
  • Put kitchen waste daily into the pit.
  • Cover each layer with a thin layer of soil.
  • Sprinkle some water if it looks too dry.
  • After 30–40 days, you'll see dark, crumbly compost ready to use.

👉 Tip:

Make two pits side by side. While one is filling, the other is decomposing.

🪣 2. Bin Method (Great for terraces or balconies)

If you live in a city flat or Don't want to dig, you can compost in a plastic bin, drum, or clay pot.

How to do it:

  • Take a bin with holes at the bottom and sides for airflow.
  • Place a layer of dry material (leaves, sawdust, cocopeat).
  • Add daily kitchen waste and cover with a handful of soil.
  • Stir once every 5–7 days to mix air inside.
  • In 25–35 days, you'll get ready compost.

👉 Tip:

Use two bins and rotate. When one is full, leave it to decompose while using the other.

🪣 3. Bucket/Container Method (Smallest & simplest)

For people with very little space (even inside the kitchen), this is the most practical method.

How to do it:

  • Take a plastic bucket or large paint container.
  • Make small holes at the sides for ventilation.
  • Layer waste and soil, just like in other methods.
  • Keep the lid loosely closed to avoid fruit flies.
  • Mix once a week. Compost is ready in 3–5 weeks.

👉 Tip:

If you have cocopeat (powder made from coconut husk), add a handful with each waste layer — it soaks extra moisture and removes smell.

📊 Quick Comparison

MethodBest ForTime to CompostSpace NeededMaintenance
PitVillages, backyards30–45 daysLargeLow
BinTerrace, balconies25–35 daysMediumMedium
BucketSmall flats, apartments20–30 daysVery smallHigh (mixing, monitoring)

🌿 Which Method Should You Choose?

Here's a simple guide:

  • If you have a backyard: Pit method (easy, natural, no smell).
  • If you live in a city with terrace/balcony: Bin method.
  • If you stay in a flat with very little space: Bucket method.

✍️ Practical Exercise for You

Try this simple activity:

  • Decide your space: Do you have land, a terrace, or just a kitchen corner?
  • Start with one method (even a simple bucket).
  • Add waste daily and observe the process.
  • Within a month, you'll be making your own compost at home — free, eco-friendly, and powerful for plants.