The compost heap may be kept in the cow-yard, and must be in the shade.
It should, therefore, be placed on the north side of the stable, and
trees should be planted east and west of it. It must not be under cover
nor washed by running water, nor receive the water from the roof of the
stable; but the rain should fall on it directly from the skies to promote
decomposition, and to prevent the escape of its volatile constituents.
The manure of the stall, and the saturated earth of the brine pit, are
mixed together to form the compost heap, and all the refuse material of
the farm, garden, and yard, should be thrown on it. It ought to be kept
in a compact body, level on top, and protected by boards on the sides to
prevent it from spreading. No ashes or lime should ever be applied to it.
Regarding the material for absorbing the liquid excretions of the cow,
nothing better can be found than prepared muck; but as this is seldom
obtainable, the scrapings of the streets of a city, or even of a public
road, may be used instead. If these cannot be had, the surface soil of
the dairy farm answer the purpose. Whatever substance is employed must be
thoroughly dried. The middle of summer is the proper time to prepare it.
About four cart loads of it, as dry as they can be made, should be kept
in the stable, or in some other place where it is not liable to attract
moisture; and that amount will last the year round.