What do you think?
Rate this book
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Composting
Waste not, want not.
The Complete Idiot's Guide(r) to Composting takes readers step by step through the process of selecting the right compost container, filling it with the right "ingredients," maintaining the mix at the right temperature and humidity, and using the end product.
•A concise format, simplified approach, and thrift-conscious price Chris McLaughlin
•Author is a Master Gardener and an expert on all forms of composting
•Gardening has risen greatly in popularity in the last few years, with an added boost from first lady Michelle Obama, and so has composting, which is cheap, effective, and environmentally friendly
•Thousands of state, regional, and municipal programs have been developed to encourage composting and thus reduce landfill waste
The Complete Idiot's Guide(r) to Composting takes readers step by step through the process of selecting the right compost container, filling it with the right "ingredients," maintaining the mix at the right temperature and humidity, and using the end product.
•A concise format, simplified approach, and thrift-conscious price Chris McLaughlin
•Author is a Master Gardener and an expert on all forms of composting
•Gardening has risen greatly in popularity in the last few years, with an added boost from first lady Michelle Obama, and so has composting, which is cheap, effective, and environmentally friendly
•Thousands of state, regional, and municipal programs have been developed to encourage composting and thus reduce landfill waste
- GenresGardeningNonfiction
208 pages, Paperback
First published May 4, 2010
63 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 16, 2018
Not in a million years did I think I would call a how-to book about composting AMAZING. But it really inspired me to become a better gardener. I felt like this author was whispering "You can do it!" on every page and although I have no intention of raising worms or rabbits, I read the parts about how to harvest their poo because it was actually pretty interesting.
I already had a compost bin with some stuff in it, but I didn't know how to make it really great. This book makes it so simple. The basics, in case you don't want to read the whole book (but you really, really should!):
Compost should be a 50-50 mix of greens (grass clippings, vegetable peels, etc.) and browns (paper, sticks, dead leaves). It should be moist so water it sometimes. And it needs some air, so turn it over with a pitchfork. And if you don't already have some old compost in there, add a starter like some old compost, dry dog food or human pee.
The best piles are the ones built all at once (hot piles), but it's more convenient to just add things as you get them, which is called a warm pile and that's ok too. Cold piles are ok, too, but that's just organic material you leave to rot for a long time, like a pile of wood or something.
I was also really keen on trying the "lasagna" method described, where you put cardboard, newspapers, grass clippings and dirt down directly on the ground for immediate planting gratification. I'm trying it right now. It took a bit of work, but probably less work than removing all the weeds and I am patting myself on the back for a) improving the soil and b) using materials that would have been sent to the dump.
BTW, a friend of mine just spent $500 on mulch this year. Think of the savings if you just use the grass, leaves, newspapers, kitchen scraps and cardboard packaging you already have!
I already had a compost bin with some stuff in it, but I didn't know how to make it really great. This book makes it so simple. The basics, in case you don't want to read the whole book (but you really, really should!):
Compost should be a 50-50 mix of greens (grass clippings, vegetable peels, etc.) and browns (paper, sticks, dead leaves). It should be moist so water it sometimes. And it needs some air, so turn it over with a pitchfork. And if you don't already have some old compost in there, add a starter like some old compost, dry dog food or human pee.
The best piles are the ones built all at once (hot piles), but it's more convenient to just add things as you get them, which is called a warm pile and that's ok too. Cold piles are ok, too, but that's just organic material you leave to rot for a long time, like a pile of wood or something.
I was also really keen on trying the "lasagna" method described, where you put cardboard, newspapers, grass clippings and dirt down directly on the ground for immediate planting gratification. I'm trying it right now. It took a bit of work, but probably less work than removing all the weeds and I am patting myself on the back for a) improving the soil and b) using materials that would have been sent to the dump.
BTW, a friend of mine just spent $500 on mulch this year. Think of the savings if you just use the grass, leaves, newspapers, kitchen scraps and cardboard packaging you already have!
October 12, 2018
Perfect for a complete idiot like me. Gave me the confidence to start composting.
July 3, 2012
This is written in easy-to-understand terms, covering every aspect, and answering all of my questions before I even know what ones to ask! There is enough humor tossed in to make it enjoyable at the same time it is educating the reader. Chris McLaughlin offers up several types of composting ideas and breaks them down into easy pieces...easy peasy, as I like to say!
My reasons for wanting to learn to compost late in life is partly due to my daughter's example of diligence in maintaining a compost bin, my (finally) realizing that it is our responsibility to care for our planet, the need to enrich the soil in our backyard, and my quest to "go greener." I knew the basic concept, but the details were very simply spelled out in this book, allowing me to at long last get my system in place.
The three chapters on vermicomposting (using worms) were very interesting and humorous at the same time. Not that I am fond of worms, but I can definitely see the benefits to having those critters munch up my kitchen waste in days, and creating rich castings for my plants. Ms. McLaughlin even gives tips for overcoming the "Eek" factor by naming your worms. My kind of gal!
I recommend this book and this author to anyone wanting to learn in easy-to-understand terms the art and benefits of composting, vermicomposting and mulching. It could be the only book you would ever want on these subjects!
Disclosure of Material Connection: "I received this book for free from the author and publisher for this review". I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Our Giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 <[...] "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
My reasons for wanting to learn to compost late in life is partly due to my daughter's example of diligence in maintaining a compost bin, my (finally) realizing that it is our responsibility to care for our planet, the need to enrich the soil in our backyard, and my quest to "go greener." I knew the basic concept, but the details were very simply spelled out in this book, allowing me to at long last get my system in place.
The three chapters on vermicomposting (using worms) were very interesting and humorous at the same time. Not that I am fond of worms, but I can definitely see the benefits to having those critters munch up my kitchen waste in days, and creating rich castings for my plants. Ms. McLaughlin even gives tips for overcoming the "Eek" factor by naming your worms. My kind of gal!
I recommend this book and this author to anyone wanting to learn in easy-to-understand terms the art and benefits of composting, vermicomposting and mulching. It could be the only book you would ever want on these subjects!
Disclosure of Material Connection: "I received this book for free from the author and publisher for this review". I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Our Giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 <[...] "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
April 19, 2018
It's OK. Good info for beginners or those who haven't actively done composting in decades (like me).
Still, it seemed padded with a lot of repetition and extraneous stuff in an effort to make it book length. As the author keeps reminding the reader, it's a simple enough process. They could have covered it all in about 25 wide-margin pages if they'd tried.
Still, it seemed padded with a lot of repetition and extraneous stuff in an effort to make it book length. As the author keeps reminding the reader, it's a simple enough process. They could have covered it all in about 25 wide-margin pages if they'd tried.
Read
August 30, 2024A great introductory book for someone interested in composting. I liked how he constantly urged and helped the reader to understand what composting method is best for them. To take it as seriously as you are able and wanting to. Compost happens regardless of how much effort you put into it.
I particularly enjoyed the bit explaining the carbon to nitrogen ratio and what constitutes as a “brown” and a “green.” I also really enjoyed the bit on the types of bacteria/bugs living in your compost. "Bacteria are found on every living creature and are one of the most essential life forms on Earth. And although we usually associate bacteria with disease, many bacteria actually prevent illness. Here's a little tidbit that will keep you up at night: bacteria on the human body outnumber human cells 10 to 1!"
Decomposers are comprised of microorganisms and macroorganisms. Bacteria make up 90% of microorganisms; the rest are made up of fungi and actinomycetes. Macrobial decomposers include: millipedes, centipedes, redworms, night crawlers, spiders, nematodes, snails, ants, grubs, springtails, beetles, mites, sow bugs, and pill bugs (roly polies). The larger critters break down pieces of organic material, exposing more surface area for microbes to finish their work.
All organic matter is composed of both carbon and nitrogen. Browns are heavier on the carbon side. Greens are heavier on the nitrogen side. You need both for compost.
Browns/Carbons: aged hay, dried leaves, sawdust, chipped wood, toilet/paper towel rolls, dried grasses, straw, 100% cotton fabrics, dryer lint, cardboard, newspaper, wrapping paper, shredded paper
Greens/Nitrogens: green grass clippings, vegetable trimmings, green leaves, tea grounds/bags, coffee grounds/filters, algae, aquarium water, citrus, houseplants, weeds (w/o seeds), human/animal hair, old flower bouquets, green prunings
Much of the book focused on vermicomposting which I’ve heard of and am not particularly interested in doing but I liked reading the basics on it in case it’s something I want to explore one day (unlikely, ha).
I particularly enjoyed the bit explaining the carbon to nitrogen ratio and what constitutes as a “brown” and a “green.” I also really enjoyed the bit on the types of bacteria/bugs living in your compost. "Bacteria are found on every living creature and are one of the most essential life forms on Earth. And although we usually associate bacteria with disease, many bacteria actually prevent illness. Here's a little tidbit that will keep you up at night: bacteria on the human body outnumber human cells 10 to 1!"
Decomposers are comprised of microorganisms and macroorganisms. Bacteria make up 90% of microorganisms; the rest are made up of fungi and actinomycetes. Macrobial decomposers include: millipedes, centipedes, redworms, night crawlers, spiders, nematodes, snails, ants, grubs, springtails, beetles, mites, sow bugs, and pill bugs (roly polies). The larger critters break down pieces of organic material, exposing more surface area for microbes to finish their work.
All organic matter is composed of both carbon and nitrogen. Browns are heavier on the carbon side. Greens are heavier on the nitrogen side. You need both for compost.
Browns/Carbons: aged hay, dried leaves, sawdust, chipped wood, toilet/paper towel rolls, dried grasses, straw, 100% cotton fabrics, dryer lint, cardboard, newspaper, wrapping paper, shredded paper
Greens/Nitrogens: green grass clippings, vegetable trimmings, green leaves, tea grounds/bags, coffee grounds/filters, algae, aquarium water, citrus, houseplants, weeds (w/o seeds), human/animal hair, old flower bouquets, green prunings
Much of the book focused on vermicomposting which I’ve heard of and am not particularly interested in doing but I liked reading the basics on it in case it’s something I want to explore one day (unlikely, ha).
June 22, 2022
Great introduction to composting that touches most of the basics. Minus one star for not really diving into either camp well - it never touches on how to compost things like meat and dairy, nor does it teach how to be a hobby composter with things like tumblers.
October 23, 2018
It's good. Tells you everything.
March 17, 2021
A solid, basic introduction. It could be repetitive in places. Unlike some reviewers, I liked the section about keeping worms. It helped me realize I don't want a worm farm. :-)
April 4, 2025
This is not a beginners guide.
October 5, 2021
Funny, informative, cheerful, and encouraging... everything I want in a composting guide.
February 29, 2012
I've been reading a ton of gardening books, preparing for planting season. This was a fun, quick, informative read. Of the 3 or 4 composting books I read, I thought this taught the most and had a much more balanced approach. She also was the only one to recommend using a closed container for your kitchen waste as little rodents (and big raccoons and skunks) might be attracted to your garden and then your home. I thought that made a lot of sense. And it's what my mom told me to do so that must mean she's right.
The book covers several different methods and the pros and cons of each, including worm farming. There is an extensive list of items you can compost (many of which never appeared in other books).
Overall, it was a fascinating read. I kept telling my husband about this tidbit or that and he started responding with, "What? You're reading a book about composting? I had no idea." He might actually buy it for Mother's Day because it is seriously my new favorite book!
The book covers several different methods and the pros and cons of each, including worm farming. There is an extensive list of items you can compost (many of which never appeared in other books).
Overall, it was a fascinating read. I kept telling my husband about this tidbit or that and he started responding with, "What? You're reading a book about composting? I had no idea." He might actually buy it for Mother's Day because it is seriously my new favorite book!
December 24, 2016
I picked this up from the library when I realized that I had a compost bin in my backyard (the previous owners were using it as a trashcan; heathens). This has a lot of good information in it, very down-to-earth (haha) and not at all preachy or scary. I feel much wiser about what I'm throwing into the bin now and we'll see how it goes. Plus, what a great way to use up the quantities of dryer lint and coffee grounds that I always seem to be throwing in the trash!! There are some interesting things you can put in the pile that I never knew about.
September 18, 2011
It was great for beginners (obviously, it IS an Idiot's Guide). I did learn a few important tips for working with my red wigglers, and took some notes on how to start my larger composting piles when I get a house. Overall, it's fairly easy read, and NOT overly detailed. Composting isn't hard, and people shouldn't be made to feel that way. Chris McLaughlin does a great job giving the facts without overwhelming you with details.
March 10, 2012
2010
This is more up-to-date and more comprehensive than the classic book, Worms Eat My Garbage. It even explains how to do vermicomposting with rabbits (pages 100-102). It shows how to make rabbitry worm boxes. These are worm boxes that are placed under your rabbit cage to catch the rabbit droppings and spilled pellets. Red wiggler worms turn the droppings and other bedding into vermicompost fertilizer (worm castings).
This is more up-to-date and more comprehensive than the classic book, Worms Eat My Garbage. It even explains how to do vermicomposting with rabbits (pages 100-102). It shows how to make rabbitry worm boxes. These are worm boxes that are placed under your rabbit cage to catch the rabbit droppings and spilled pellets. Red wiggler worms turn the droppings and other bedding into vermicompost fertilizer (worm castings).
January 16, 2012
Good, solid information on something that's probably best learned as a hands-on experience. Felt a little padded out with all the alternative methods of composting (worms, etc.) but still a useful read.
September 1, 2015
A must read for any aspiring gardener that shuns the chemical fertilisers and wants to get into organic farming methods instead. This book will teach you all the basics that are there to know about composting. A worthy read.
March 13, 2011
It was very good. My compost is looking humus-y. The book was good enough that it got me thinking about vermicomposting and getting chicken manure from a neighbor!
July 4, 2012
It really is fool-proof.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews