Compost bins and heaps take up little space, but if used properly can provide you with a steady supply of nutrient-rich compost to use in the garden. That said, there are some practises that can slow down the composting process, or even cause it to cease completely. Composting is all about achieving the right balance of carbon-rich (woody) and nitrogen-rich (green, leafy) material.

More expert advice on composting:

In this No Fuss video guide, David Hurrion explains what happens when composting goes wrong, and what to look for when dealing with composting problems. He explains that compost can take up to three years to break down, when it's not working properly, when it can take only a few months if well mixed. He demonstrates how to stop the heap from drying out in summer, and how to stop it becoming too wet and cold in winter. Find out how much green and brown material to add to your compost heap, and why mixing it together will aid the composting process. David also explains the benefits of insulating the heap in winter and leaving it exposed in summer, as well as how useful compost activators can be.

Need a new composter? Check out our expert guide to tried and tested compost bins. If you're in a hurry, here are quick links to the Best Buys:

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