Leaves normally take up to two years to decay. In addition to leaves and grass, certain kitchen scraps such as eggshells and coffee grounds also are recyclable through composting. Best of all, backyard composting provides organic material that you can use in your garden and flower beds in the spring. Shredding leaves, grass clippings and kitchen scraps speeds up decay. The pile should be located in a convenient area, protected from overexposure.
Nitrogen accelerates composting.
Good sources are grass clippings and manure. The pile and its enclosure should be well ventilated. Decaying without oxygen can cause odors. Water your compost. Materials in the pile should be kept moist.