1. Prepare Your Container<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Start by drilling about 10 holes on each side of your container and the lid for ventilation and drainage. I used a 1\/4 drill bit size. This is for a 20-gallon storage tote but feel free to get any size that is right for you. I found this tote for $5 at a thrift store near me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Add Sticks, Twigs, and Bark<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Add a layer of sticks, mulch, or old potting soil to the bottom of your container. This will help to filter air circulation through the container and provide drainage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The sticks will decompose over time. If you’re living in an apartment and you don’t have access to organic yard materials, no worries! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can skip this step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Add Your “Greens”<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Toss in your green layer of food scraps. I used an expired salad. Then add in two more layers of paper products. Every time you add a single layer of “green” (food scraps), you should also add a DOUBLE layer of “brown” (paper, leaves, or cardboard). This helps keep any smells or odors trapped. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip: Cut and freeze food scraps before adding them to compost.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Freezing helps rupture cellular plant walls for faster decomposition!<\/p>\n\n\n\n