Turn Kitchen Scraps Into Valuable Garden Compost
Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden? Composting is an easy and affordable way to achieve both. By transforming kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost, you can reduce the amount of waste in landfills and improve the health of your garden soil.
This beginner’s guide to composting will provide you with the information you need to start.
What is composting?
Composting is the natural process of breaking down organic matter into nutrient-rich soil. Composting can be done on a small scale at home or on a larger scale in commercial operations. The result is a soil amendment that can improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient content.
Why should I compost?
Composting has several benefits, including:
1. Reducing waste: Composting reduces the amount of organic matter in landfills. When organic matter decomposes in landfills, it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.
2. Improving soil health: Compost adds nutrients to the soil, improves soil structure, and increases water retention. This leads to healthier plants and better yields.
3. Saving money: Composting reduces the need for fertilizers and other soil amendments, which can be expensive.
What can I compost?
You can compost a variety of organic materials, including:
1. Kitchen scraps: Vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and nutshells.
2. Yard waste: Grass clippings, leaves, twigs, and branches.
3. Other organic materials: Shredded newspaper, cardboard, and sawdust.
What should I, not compost?
You should not compost:
1. Meat, dairy, and oily foods: These can attract pests and create unpleasant odors.
2. Diseased plants and weeds: These can spread diseases and weeds to your garden.
3. Pet waste: Pet waste can contain pathogens that harm humans.
How do I compost?
Composting can be done in several ways, including:
1. Backyard composting: This involves creating a compost pile or bin in your backyard. You can use various materials, including wire mesh, wooden pallets, or a plastic bin. To start a compost pile, layer brown materials (such as leaves and twigs) with green materials (such as kitchen scraps and grass clippings). Keep the pile moist and turn it regularly to aerate the compost.
2. Worm composting: Worm composting, also known as vermicomposting, involves using worms to break down organic matter. You can purchase a worm bin or make your own using a plastic container. Add shredded newspaper or cardboard to the bin, along with kitchen scraps. Add worms to the bin and keep it moist. The worms will eat the organic matter and produce nutrient-rich castings.
3. Trench composting: Trench composting involves burying organic matter in a trench in your garden. Dig a trench about 12 inches deep and add kitchen scraps and yard waste. Cover the trench with soil and let it decompose over time.
How long does composting take?
The time it takes for compost to be ready depends on several factors, including the materials used, the compost pile size, and how often it is turned. It generally takes six months to 2 years for compost to be fully decomposed and ready to use.
How do I know when my compost is ready?
Compost is ready when it is dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell. You should not be able to recognize any of the original materials in the compost. If you see chunks of food or yard waste, the compost is not ready yet.
How do I use compost?
Compost can be used as a soil amendment, mulch, or potting soil. Mix compost as a soil amendment into the top few inches before planting. For mulch, spread a layer of compost around the base of your plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Mix compost with sand and peat moss to make potting soil in a 1:1:1 ratio.
Final Thoughts on Turn Kitchen Scraps into Valuable Garden Compost
In conclusion, composting is an easy and affordable way to reduce waste and improve the health of your garden soil. Following the tips in this beginner’s guide, you can turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into garden gold.
FAQs on Turn Kitchen Scraps into Valuable Garden Compost
Q: Can I compost in an apartment?
A: You can compost in an apartment using a worm bin. Worm bins are small and can be kept inside. They also do not produce unpleasant odors.
Q: Do I need to add anything to my compost pile?
A: You do not need to add anything to your compost pile, but adding a compost activator can speed up the decomposition process. Compost activators contain microorganisms that help break down organic matter.
Q: Can I compost in the winter?
A: Yes, you can compost in the winter. However, the decomposition process will slow down due to colder temperatures. Covering your compost pile with a tarp can help retain heat and moisture.
Q: Can I compost paper towels and napkins?
A: Yes, you can compost paper towels and napkins as long as they are not contaminated with chemicals or food waste. It is best to use unbleached paper towels and napkins.
Q: Can I compost citrus peels?
A: Yes, you can compost citrus peels. However, they may take longer to decompose than other kitchen scraps.
