I would like to start to make a compost pile. I have a large plastic trashcan with holes in it, like someone suggested, and I don't know what to do to start it. I have no idea what to put in it. I drink a lot of coffee and tea and we eat alot of fresh fruit and veggies, should I be saving these items? What about dog poop(I have 2) and cat box poop? I also have a lot of indoor ivy that I keep trimmed back, is that okay? I would really like to get started soon and would love some help!!! Thanks

there is a variety of opinions as to the addition of animal excrement. To be on the safe side, considering the size of you pile, I would leave it out. You sound like you have a good supply of nitrogen sources, the "green" stuff. you should have about a 20/80 green to brown ration, so youneed to get some straw, leaves, cardboard (shredded) or newspaper (also shredded). You will also probably want to include a couple of pounds of dry molasses or a diluted gallon of liquid molasses to help feed the little critters doing the composting.

http://www.dirtdoctor.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=1

The best bet is to check the composting forum above. You will find many ideas to help you! By checking the forum, you will get different approaches to composting.