A compost pit is a hole in the ground where organic materials are added, such as food scraps, yard waste, and leaves. It is a simpler form of composting, where the compost is done underground rather than in a compost bin. Composting is a controlled, aerobic process that converts organic materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment or mulch through natural decomposition. The end product is compost, which is a dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling material. Microorganisms feed on the materials added to the compost pile during the composting process. They use carbon and nitrogen to grow and reproduce, water to digest materials, and oxygen to breathe.

To make a compost pit, start by digging a hole 1 foot deep and as large as you want depending on how much compost you plan to make. Then, chop up your organic materials into small pieces and add them to the pit. Cover the materials in the pit with a fine layer of soil or carbon-rich material, like shredded paper or dead leaves, then close it up with a board. The composting process will take several months to a year, depending on the materials used and the conditions in the pit. The end product can be used as a plant fertilizer and to improve soils physical, chemical, and biological properties.