Place 3 to 4 inches of chopped brush on top of the exposed soil to allow air to circulate under the pile. Add water to moisten. Spread a one inch layer of soil over the pile. This will speed up the decomposition process by introducing more soil microorganisms into the pile. Add water to moisten.
Repeat steps one through four until the pile is large enough.
You can cover the pile with straw or plastic to keep the heat in or excess rain out. You want the material in the pile to be damp like a sponge. Be sure to turn the pile at least once every two weeks. The compost is ready to use when it is dark brown, crumbly and earthy-smelling.