Effortless Composting, Free of Blockages and Simplified.
In the realm of composting, myths abound about complex procedures, precise proportions, and daily care. However, according to Nikolai Andreyev, author of the lazy composting method, a nutritious and balanced compost can be achieved with minimal effort.
For optimal results, choose a moderate-sized composting bin, approximately 3x3 feet or about 64 cubic feet, large enough to retain heat but manageable to turn or maintain. This size ensures an ideal environment for microbial activity.
To create a balanced mix of ingredients, layer approximately equal parts of brown materials like dry leaves, cardboard, and wood chips, green materials such as fruit scraps, vegetable peels, and grass clippings, and a sprinkle of soil to introduce microorganisms. Keep the pile slightly moist, like a wrung-out sponge, and place it in a sunny spot.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasionally turn or shake the pile to aerate it and maintain the moisture level. This balance and simple care will help microbes and fungi break down materials effectively for nutrient-rich compost.
If a bin is unavailable, burying compostable material directly in the soil can also work but is less controlled. Smaller containers like plastic "daleks" don't create enough heat, causing the compost to mature slowly or not break down at all.
Thin layers of fresh grass are allowed, but they should not be piled too thick to prevent a sticky, smelly mess. To start decomposition and heating processes inside the compost, the walls of the bin or pile should be at least 1 meter.
Lazy compost takes 6-8 months to mature, without the need for turning, thermometers, or "activators". If space allows, having three compost piles (one for filling, one for ripening, and one for taking ready compost from) is an ideal option.
Rodents may be attracted to the warmth of the compost, but they will not be interested if hot food, bread, and dairy products are not added. Compost ingredients can be categorized into two groups: greens (rich in nitrogen and moisture) and browns (rich in carbon, dry). It is better to have thin layers of grass mixed with dry materials.
In the "lazy" approach, there is no strict adherence to the 2:1 or 3:1 ratio of greens to browns. Covering the top of the compost bin with paper or a piece of plastic protects it from rain and maintains the right moisture. During a drought, compost needs to be watered.
Adding organic waste gradually and diversely (peels, skins, dry leaves, eggshells) helps create a natural balance of pH and microelements in the lazy composting method. Nikolai Andreyev states that having a compost pile for waste and a ready supply of ripe soil reduces the need for store-bought compost and saves costs. Pressing down on the contents of the compost bin with your feet helps improve heating.
By following Nikolai Andreyev's lazy composting method, anyone can create nutrient-rich compost without the need for complex procedures or precise proportions. Variety is emphasized as the key to a nutritious and balanced compost, so don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients. Happy composting!
[1] Andreyev, N. (2021). The Lazy Composting Method: A Simple Guide to Making Nutrient-Rich Compost. [Book] [2] Andreyev, N. (2020). The Art of Lazy Composting: Achieving Balance and Simplicity in Your Compost Pile. [Article] [4] Andreyev, N. (2019). The Lazy Composter's Handbook: Reducing Waste and Saving Money with Homemade Compost. [Book] [5] Andreyev, N. (2018). Beyond the Bin: Creative Composting Solutions for Urban Gardeners. [Article]
- Engage in lazy composting by following Nikolai Andreyev's method, which advocates for a balanced lifestyle that includes home-and-garden activities such as gardening, creating nutrient-rich compost without complex procedures or precise proportions.
- Alongside books, articles, and handbooks, Andreyev encourages variety in composting by suggesting that people experiment with different green (rich in nitrogen and moisture) and brown (rich in carbon, dry) ingredients, further reinforcing the connection between gardening and home-and-garden lifestyles.
