Composting is beneficial for the environment. Find out how you can get started composting today!
Why it’s important
Composting is an easy and sustainable practice that helps the earth. It involves the act of recycling organic waste into nutrient rich soil for a yard or garden. Adopting composting practices can also reduce one’s environmental footprint, so it’s a win-win for all!
Be a contributor
Composting empowers individuals to become more self-sufficient by producing their own plant fertilizer for gardening and landscaping needs. For those not personally using compost material in their own gardens, the act of donating organic waste to a compost center contributes to overall environmental preservation.
Quick basics
Composting is the natural process of decomposition, where organic materials such as food scraps and yard waste break down into a rich and dark soil known as compost. This process is driven by microorganisms, insects, and worms, which help to break down the material and turn them into valuable nutrients for plants.
Items to compost
Here are examples of materials to compost:
- Fruit and vegetable waste (peels, scraps, spoiled items)
- Houseplant trimmings/flowers
- Coffee grounds/paper filters
- Eggshells
- Hair & fur
- Grass clippings/leaves
- Paper goods (cardboard, newspapers, unused toilet paper)
What not to compost
Here is a short-list of what NOT to compost:
- Meat/fish scrap & bones
- Fat, cooking oil, grease
- Pet waste
- Dairy products
- Coffee pods
- Walnuts (They release toxic compounds)
Per Healthline, “You can compost many organic materials, including food scraps, yard trimmings, and certain paper products. However, some items contain harmful compounds or attract pests and therefore shouldn’t be composted.”
When uncertain, do your homework.
A little science
Composting requires three main components: greens, browns, and moisture. Greens are nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetable scraps, fresh grass clippings, plant trimmings, coffee grounds and tea bags. These materials help to heat up the pile and speed decomposition. Browns are carbon-rich materials that include dried leaves, straw, cardboard, newspaper and wood chips. Browns provide structure to the compost pile and help to aerate it, allowing oxygen to reach microorganisms. Moisture helps to keep the pile active. Too much water can lead to anaerobic conditions, while too little can slow decomposition. Experts reveal that the pile should be moist but not soggy, like the consistency of a wrung-out sponge.
Apartment living
If you live in a city apartment or high-rise, and your building composts, it’s likely that a composting company has been hired to collect the waste from clients. Residents typically transport compost material to a central bin and the company regularly picks it up.
DIY composting
Bin composting – This convenient method uses a bin to manage a compost pile. Bins come in assorted sizes and materials, including plastic and untreated wood. These sturdy containers serve to contain the pile, keep out pests, and keep things tidy. Place your bin in a shady, well-drained area.
Heap composting – For those with ample garden space, a compost heap is a simple and effective method. Build your heap directly on the ground, layering greens and browns. Cover the heap with a tarp to retain moisture and heat.
Vermicomposting – This method uses worms to break down organic waste. The method is ideal for indoor composting because it’s odorless. Red wrigglers are the preferred species for vermicomposting. Set up a worm bin with bedding material, such as shredded newspaper, and add your food scraps.
Build your compost pile
- Layer greens and browns using this formula: Aim for 1 part greens to 3 parts browns. Alternate to ensure even breakdown. Add water as needed to maintain moisture.
- Regularly add to your pile. Chop or shred large items to speed up decomposition.
- Be thoughtful in what you add to your pile to prevent attracting rodents and creating stinky odors.
- With a tool, such as a pitchfork or compost aerator, turn the pile every few weeks to aerate it and to speed up the process. This helps materials break down evenly.
Moisture, temperature and odors
There are three main factors that should be monitored.
- Moisture: A healthy compost pile should be moist but never soggy. If it’s dry, add a little amount of water. If it’s too wet, add more browns to absorb the moistness.
- Temperature: Compost piles should optimally be between 135°F and 160°F. If the pile feels cook, add more greens and turn the pile for aeration. Consider a compost thermometer to monitor temperature.
- Odors: The last thing anyone wants is a stinky pile. A properly maintained compost pile should have an earthy smell. If the pile smells wholeheartedly unpleasant, turn the pile and add more browns to restore balance. Also, consider what you are adding to your pile to be sure it’s on the good list.
In summary
Adopting composting practices is great for the environment. Compost materials can be used as plant fertilizer and help to improve the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological properties. When done right, composting is also a gratifying experience. Not only is it valuable for gardens by providing nutrients for soil and crops, but it is beneficial for the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. So, stop filling the landfills and begin composting today!
