The only time an odor problem will arise is when thick layers of fresh grass clippings are added. Dig a long trench 6-8 inches deep between crop rows. Place disease-free, organic litter not treated with pesticides in the bottom of the trench. Cover with a few inches of soil. Do not add more than a few inches of soil because more biological activity occurs closer to the soil surface.
Decomposition takes one season.
Even very fibrous garden waste, such as tough stalks, decompose in one year with this method. Peas and beans can be planted directly in the trench. The action of decomposition will not disturb their nitrogen requirements. For example, winter rye or annual ryegrass is planted in fall to be turned into the soil in spring. Sowing time varies with the cover crop to be grown.