Composting: why, what and how

Embracing the Art of Composting

In the world of gardening, compost is often referred to as “black gold” for its transformative powers in nurturing soil health and fostering plant growth. If you haven’t ventured into composting yet, here’s why you should consider turning kitchen scraps and yard waste into this valuable resource.

**1. Eco-Friendly Waste Management:

Composting is a sustainable way to manage organic waste. By diverting kitchen scraps like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells from landfills, you reduce methane emissions and contribute to a healthier planet.

**2. Nutrient-Rich Soil Booster:

Compost is a nutrient-packed soil conditioner. It enhances soil structure, improves water retention, and provides a slow-release source of essential nutrients for plants. Your garden will thank you with vibrant, flourishing foliage and bountiful harvests.

**3. Reduced Need for Chemical Fertilizers:

With compost, you can reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers. The organic matter in compost supports a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms in the soil, promoting natural nutrient cycling and reducing the need for chemical inputs.

**4. How to Compost:

• Ingredients: Combine kitchen scraps (fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells), yard waste (grass clippings, leaves), and small amounts of shredded newspaper or cardboard. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily items as they can attract pests and slow down the composting process.

• Balance is Key: Aim for a balanced mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Green materials provide essential nitrogen, while brown materials contribute carbon. This balance ensures efficient decomposition.

• Turning and Moisture: Regularly turn the compost to aerate it, speeding up decomposition. Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged. Think of it like a wrung-out sponge—damp enough for microbial activity but not soggy.

5. What to Add to Your Compost Bin:

• Green Materials (Nitrogen):

• Fruit and vegetable scraps

• Coffee grounds

• Tea leaves/bags

• Grass clippings (in moderation)

• Plant trimmings

• Manure from herbivores (e.g., rabbits, chickens)

• Brown Materials (Carbon):

• Dry leaves

• Straw or hay

• Shredded newspaper

• Cardboard (cut into small pieces)

• Twigs and small branches

• Sawdust (in moderation, as it can be acidic)

• Extras:

• Crushed eggshells (provide calcium)

• Wood ash (in small quantities for minerals)

• Small amounts of kitchen scraps like bread (in moderation)

6. When to Harvest Your Compost:

• Composting is a patient gardener’s game. Depending on the conditions and the mix of materials, compost can be ready in a few months to a year. When the compost turns dark and has a rich, earthy smell, it’s a sign that it’s ready.

7. Spreading the Gold:

• Once your compost is ready, spread it around your garden or mix it into the soil. Your plants will thrive on this nutrient-rich goodness.

Composting isn’t just waste management; it’s a gift to your garden and the environment. Embrace the composting journey, and watch your green spaces flourish.