Autumn’s crisp breeze fill the air, while nature provides a spectacular visual performance in radiant hues of reds, browns, oranges and golds...signifying Winter near. That is, if you are lucky enough to reside in an area of the country where this happens.

No matter where you live, if you have trees in your yard - leaves still fall to the ground when their cycle is complete. This is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of one nature’s bounties and place those leaves that are still rich in nutrients to work for little or no cost.

If you have never composted before, maybe thinking it too messy or complex, or you did not know where to begin - Fall is the perfect time to start.

Composting is a simple and spontaneous process. There is no need for special knowledge or complicated equipment and materials.

Some of the benefits of composting are:

• A great soil amendment that enhances a plants ability to fight off diseases and pests.
• Cost-effective and eco-friendly way to convert waste that would otherwise go to the landfill into an all-natural and safe fertilizer.
• Increases moisture retaining properties and absorbency in the soil, which in turn makes plants healthier.
• Eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers.

The three basic components of compost are:

• Brown (carbon) – Shredded newspaper, twigs, branches and leaves.
• Green (nitrogen) – grass clippings, vegetable waste, fruit scraps, dryer lint, egg shells, coffee grounds and filters.
• Water – provides moisture and aids in breaking down organic matter.

It is often said that compost piles should be balanced - 2 parts brown to 1 part green; however, this step is optional. All organic matter will breakdown eventially.

Follow the balancing rule for fast (hot) composting results. Balancing the browns to greens will produce heat as the materials decompose, which will speed up the process.

Taking a relaxed approach (also known as passive composting), and not worrying about ratios will produce great compost just the same.

• Select an area where you would like the compost pile to reside that is convenient for you. It should be a level, well-drained shady area, away from shallow tree roots.
• Place a layer of branches and twigs (aids in drainage), on the ground and pile on leaves by themselves, or mix in grass cuttings or whatever "green" matter of choice.
• Dampen the leaves while adding them to the pile.
• Aerate the pile by turning once a week, once a month, or a couple times a year. If the pile appears to be smelling foul, turning it will eliminate the odor.
• Compost will be ready in six to twelve months when it smells nice and takes on a crumbly, brownish-black appearance called humus.

Where to put compost to work:

• Flowers and vegetable gardens: Amend approximately ½ inch of mature compost into the top six inches of the soil.
• Lawn: Sprinkle ¼ inch of compost evenly across the grass.
• Trees and shrubs: Wood chips, grass clippings, and leaves that have not matured can be spread around trees and shrubs.

If you prefer to keep compost nice and neat...

The University of Wisconsin has published (requires adobe reader), seven various composting bin construction plans for do-it-yourselfers in pdf format:

1. Wood and Wire Compost Bin This portable bin provides a convenient way to compost yard materials. It fits well in small spaces and may be used either as a holding bin or as a portable turning unit.
2. Wooden Pallet Compost Bin Wooden pallets can make an inexpensive and durable compost bin. The bin can be used as a holding or turning unit. Used pallets are often available from local businesses, manufacturers or landfills.
3. Concrete Block Compost Bin Concrete block can be used to make a 1, 2 or 3-bin compost unit. Block bins are durable, require few tools and can handle large amounts of yard materials.
4. Wood 3-Bin Compost Unit This 3-bin wooden unit is a sturdy system that can make a large volume of compost fast.
5. Wire Mesh Compost Bin Wire mesh composting bins are inexpensive, easy to assemble and hold a large volume of yard materials.
6. Can Composter A can composter is an inexpensive way to compost yard materials or food wastes in a limited space.
7. Barrel Composter The barrel composter is fast way to make small batches of compost.

Some things to remember...

It does not matter whether you have a limited or open space, a lot of time to devote to it, or very little spare time - composting is an easy, cost-effective and environmentally safe way to have a great lawn and garden. You decide how much time to dedicate to it according to your lifestyle.