Comfrey is the compost enricher par excellence. Its chemical composition is almost the same as that of farmyard manure, and its high natural calcium and nitrogen content and its quick decomposition make it a very necessary addition to each bin of compost. I build up my bins in layers as spent material becomes available, then turn the contents into a second bin, mixing comfrey leaves and stalks, well chopped, through the pile as I do so. Dolomite and a layer of sandy soil are spread through at intervals, and at the same time I add to the bin other herbs in varying quantities.

Yarrow is the catalyst. Work done in England and West Germany has proved that a “homeopathic dose” of 1 part in 10,000 of yarrow, added to each bin, is the most effective quantity. One or two tiny leaves, snipped finely and well-mixed through, are enough to “send off” about one or two cubic yards of compost material. Larger quantities of yarrow do not improve this process. On the contrary, they are not as speedy. So have faith, and add only this minute quantity.

Camomile is very rich in natural calcium, and essential for a “healthy” compost bin. It will stop excessive acidification, and keep the decomposing material sweet as well. Valerian, a little-known herb, is another asset to the soil. It stimulates phosphorus activity in the earth around it, and added to the compost is very valuable. Tansy, with its high proportion of potassium, ensures this necessary element is present, too, in large quantities. Nettles, the stinging little monsters often found around poultry farms, give their contribution of iron, and a catalytic action as well. Dandelion is another potent source of minerals, and can be added as often as you feel impelled to root it out of pathways or flowerbeds.

Add the green parts of all these herbs and the flowers as well if you have them. Roots are perhaps better left out, unless you are an experienced compost-maker; there will be less chance of incomplete breakdown. My own compost bins are ready about six weeks after the herbs are added and mixed well through, and a coarse sweet-smelling black organic “stew” is then ready to be spread over the soil and lightly dug in.

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