As you’ve heard before, organic matter is the main component necessary in order to build a compost pile. Organic matter is quite simply “any material that originates from living organisms, including all animal and plant life whether still living or in any stage of decomposition.” But should all types of organic matter be tossed into your compost pile? Certainly not.

Diseased Plant Material

For example, if you have plants that have been snuffed out by disease, leave them out; they belong in the garbage can, not in your compost pile (which will eventually end up back in your garden and wreak havoc on the next generation of plants). Coal ashes are toxic to plants — period. They carry high levels of sulfur, plus heavy metals like arsenic and iron. Don’t even consider adding it to your pile.

Meat-Eating Animal Manures

Carnivorous animal manure best kept out of your soil amendments, including compost. Meat-eating animals are notorious for carrying pathogens and parasites which are harmful to humans. Pathogens are usually associated with manure from carnivorous animals like dogs and cats, as opposed to the herbaceous types such as horses and rabbits.

Although it’s much less likely that you’ll have pathogen trouble with the grass-eaters, it’s still a possibility. To be safe, it’s best to compost them before adding them to your garden beds. Personally, I wouldn’t want my fabulous, earthy compost to smell like dog and cat poo anyway.

Pesticides and Insecticides

Pesticides and insecticides have no place in your pile, either. As a plant killer, they literally defeat the purpose of your organic compost creation. Any plant materials that have been sprayed with these chemicals should be disposed of elsewhere (like the garbage can).

But what about pesticides? Well, pesticides are toxic to all kinds of living things (the good guys included), which will threaten the macro-and microorganisms that are desirable in a compost pile. Let’s not kill the good guys, okay?

Dairy Products and Meat

Critters that you’d rather not have around are extremely attracted to dairy products such as milk, cheese, and meat. These foods also become seriously smelly before they completely break down. For the same reasons that you wouldn’t add dairy and meat products, grease and fat should be disposed of instead of added to your compost.

The last thing I want to consider is garden soil. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not harmful to add it to the compost pile. But then, it doesn’t actually help, either. For some reason, people feel that they have to add it in “for good measure”, but I assure you it isn’t necessary. I suspect that people want the piled up materials to look like the final product immediately. Never fear, it’ll become rich, crumbly compost with or without the addition.

That said, the best way to start a compost pile is on bare soil, as all of the micro- and macro decomposers will be drawn naturally to your organic materials (this is what you want). Also, adding some of the leftover soil from the previous batch of compost (or built the pile in the same spot as the last batch), it’ll help inoculate it with some potent micronutrients and bacteria and get your new pile all revved up.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Ashman Garden Cultivator (1Pack)

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Solid Build—The Ashman Garden Cultivator/Tiller is strong in construction so that it can withstand heavy work in the garden. The blade and the shaft are coupled well for deep digging and uprooting the soil from the depths. It serves the purpose of cultivation very well. Create a blooming crop and watch it blossom and reap the benefits. Sharpened Fine piercing Blade—The blades are razor sharp and are made to pierce into any kind of soil and to serve digging, loosening soil, and weeding. The blades are rust-proof and have chip-resistant coating enhancing durability. Use it to control weeds, bury crop residue in the soil, and for preparing a proper seed bed. High-Quality Design—The thoughtful design incorporated to shape the blades in L shape helps dig deep into the soil and rip it from beneath for cultivation. This helps a lot when weeding. Dig well and plant well. The handle is made to fit in the hand well and can be held tightly to apply push and pull forces effectively. Practical Utility—The garden cultivator is made with “practical utility” as the core of its purpose. It serves all the necessary purposes when gardening. Helps mix soil, which will loosen it up, providing more nutrients for the crops.

Buy at Amazon

Ho-Mi Digger - Korean Triangle Blade

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Versatile Tool: The Easy Digger Korean Triangle Blade Ho Mi Ho-mi is a versatile gardening tool designed for leveling and digging in home and garden settings. Efficient Design: Its unique triangular blade shape allows for easy soil penetration and efficient leveling of garden beds or landscaping areas. Durable Construction: Crafted with sturdy materials, this tool ensures long-lasting performance and reliability. Ergonomic Handle: The comfortable handle provides a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Compact Size: Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and store when not in use.

Buy at Amazon