Composting

Question

Hi. This city dweller could really use your help. I have a 10′ x 6′ garden and am planting a few tomato and other plants in containers (since I have a stray cat problem). I heard making my own compost is a good idea, but not sure how. I was throwing my excess veggies tops and bottoms into a bin, but when I looked after a week, there is all this liquid on the bottom. I’m guessing that isn’t good. Anyway, I assume I throw that in with dirt and dried leaves, yes? But when do I put it in the plants since I already planted them? Thanks so much!!!! Oh, I could really use your advice on these cats who use my garden as a litter box. Can’t put in a sprinkler system and chicken wire is too expensive. Thoughts? Thxxx

Answer 1

Compost is made up of green and brown materials. You had the greens but not the browns. Here is how:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/composting-basics.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/ultimate-beginners-guide-composting.htm

Not sure what you meant by putting in the plants unless you are thinking of a lasagna garden:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/lasagna-gardening.htm

Here's what we have regarding cats:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/cat-repellent.htm