Composting is one way we can help reduce the amount of waste we produce. When organic materials like food scraps and yard waste are composted, they are broken down into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. This amendment can be used to improve the quality of our soil, which in turn helps to grow healthier plants.
In addition to reducing the amount of waste we produce, composting also has a number of other environmental benefits. For example, it reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, which can pollute our waterways. Composting also helps to sequester carbon, which helps to combat climate change.
How does composting work?
Composting is nature’s way of recycling. It’s the process of breaking down organic matter, like leaves and food scraps, into a rich soil amendment that can be used to improve the quality of your garden soil. Kitchen scraps and yard waste make up 28% of what we throw away, so composting is a great way to reduce your waste and help the environment.
The key to successful composting is to create the right conditions for the bacteria and fungi to thrive. The ideal compost pile should be about as big as a small car, and should be made up of about 30% green materials (like kitchen scraps and grass clippings) and 70% brown materials (like dead leaves and twigs). The pile should be moist (but not too wet), and should be turned every few weeks to aerate it and help the decomposition process.
How do I start composting?
Starting a compost bin is easy and can be done with items you have around your house. All you need is a container (like a garbage can), some organic matter (like fruit and vegetable scraps), and a little bit of water.
- Find a container. Any type of container will work as long as it has a lid to keep the compost contained. If you're using a garbage can, drill a few holes in the bottom for drainage.
- Layer your materials. Start with a layer of organic matter, then add a layer of soil, then another layer of organic matter, and so on.
- Add water. Moisten the layers as you go to help the composting process.
- Stir it up. Once in a while, stir up the compost to aerate it and help speed up decomposition.
- Use it! After a few months, your compost will be ready to use in your garden or on your lawn.
What are the benefits of composting?
Composting is a process of breaking down organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Composting is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment, as it reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfills. Composting also has a number of other benefits, including:
- Improving Soil Quality
- Reducing Water Usage
- Suppressing Plant Diseases
- Promoting Plant Growth
- Improving Air Quality
What materials can be composted?
When it comes to composting, there are a lot of things that you can do with your kitchen scraps and yard waste. With the right ingredients, you can create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that will help your plants grow and thrive.
Here are some materials that you can compost:
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Tea bags
- Eggshells
- Shredded paper
- Cardboard
- Yard waste
- Leaves
- Grass clippings
- Pine needles
- Wood chips
