Choose an appropriate site to set up your compost. The site should not be too close to the living quarters, as it will emit some foul smells. But don't put it too far away, as forgetting about it is easy. An area exposed to little amounts of both sun and wind ensures the pile does not dry out. Bare ground is better than concrete because it provides good drainage.
The easiest and most convenient method to compost is to create a pile on the bare ground. Alternatively, you can use chicken wire or create a bin. Whatever method selected, make it an area of at least 3 feet long and wide.
Add materials rich in carbon and nitrogen, such as leaves, algae and cardboard pieces in the designated area. Add soil onto the materials while alternating them in layers until you reach a height of about 3 feet. Do not pack the soil and materials too tightly to allow for circulation of air.
Turn the created pile as often as once every two days using a rake or pitch fork to ensure proper air circulation. This is because the microorganisms that facilitate composting use oxygen. Add a sufficient amount of water to the compost heap to ensure the composting process goes on smoothly.
When the heap turns into a dark brown color and is crumbly, it is ready for use. Add about 2 to 3 inches of the compost and mix it with about 5 to 6 inches of garden soil.