How to Compost at Home

3. Dry Brown Compost Materials

Brown materials are dry and high in carbon, the energy source for compost microbes. They include fallen leaves, shredded branches, hay, straw, used tea and paper tea bags (without staples), and wood shavings or sawdust from untreated wood. Shred paper, newspaper, and tissues, and break cardboard into small pieces before adding them. Skip glossy or heavily dyed paper, which carries too many additives and inks. Crushed eggshells add calcium to the mix. Straw is a good choice for working into clay soil because it breaks down slowly, and its particles help keep heavy soil aerated.