Nothing will get your garden growing faster than compost. Just
½ INCH of compost can feed your entire garden for the entire summer. That’s
quite a powerhouse! Not only is it healthier for your soil than using liquid
fertilizers, it also encourages earth worm populations and helps the soil hold
water.
Some people use compost piles, which are fine, but a
challenge to keep at just the right moisture level to be successful, and in the
desert heat that can be a major challenge. The pile needs to be watered and
turned regularly, which can be a ton of work. Another option is a composting
barrel or bin. These are small and more easily turned, but you will need to
regularly empty it to keep the compost going.
I have found over the years the most efficient way is to
compost right in the garden itself. This depends, of course, on if you have
room. Essentially what you do is bury kitchen scraps (only produce scraps, no
meat, fish, or dairy. Eggshells are okay.) in between the rows. It will compost
quite quickly since it is in an ideal situation for keeping moist. No turning
needed, just bury in a different spot each time. When you rototill in the
spring, mix it up good and you are all set. No transporting, no turning…works
great.
