How to Compost at Home

3. Dry Brown Compost Materials

Dry, brown compost materials are high in carbon and provide energy for compost microbes. Brown materials include fallen leaves, shredded tree branches, hay, straw, tea, and tea bags, and wood shavings or sawdust from untreated wood. Shred paper, newspaper, or tissues and break cardboard into small pieces for compost. Glossy or heavily dyed papers are not good composting materials because they have too many additives and chemicals. Eggshells contain high levels of calcium and enrich compost. Straw is a good choice for clay soil because it decomposes slowly. The straw particle help keep clay soil aerated.