In most gardens and households, small amounts of residue and wastes are continuously available. These materials can be added to the compost on a weekly or even daily basis provided they are moistened and mixed well. To hasten composting, keep the pile moist. During dry spells add water to aid in the breakdown of the material. Turn the pile every 60 days during warm weather for a better mix and more rapid decomposition.
Leaves generally decay much more slowly than straw or grass clippings.
The compost should be ready to use in 6 to 12 months, depending on the season of the year and type of materials to be used or added and on whether or not you first grind all materials. Do not use diseased plants in your compost pile. Disease often finds the pile a handy place to survive and may attack your plants when it is spread around them. Also avoid composting weeds that have gone to seed. As a soil conditioner, mix it into the soil before planting.