The Basics of Composting

Composting has become a buzzword in the gardening community. But what is compost, how is it made, and what are its benefits? Let’s discuss the basics of composting and learn how to make your own compost at home!

What is compost?

Compost includes organic materials that break down, decay, and create a nutrient-rich mixture. This mixture is often added to gardens to improve the health and growth of plants. Food scraps and natural substances are used to make compost.

How to make your own compost

Compost can be created outdoors in a compost bin or pile. There are also compost bins to use indoors and smaller compost tumblers for exterior use. Compost consists of layers of brown and green materials. Water is also needed to keep the compost moist.

Brown materials include dry organic waste such as:

• Dead leaves

• Wood chips

• Pine needles

• Shredded newspaper

• Sawdust

• Hay or straw

• Fur and hair

Green materials include wet organic waste such as:

• Scraps of fruits and vegetables

• Rotted fruits and vegetables

• Coffee grounds and tea bags

• Fresh grass clippings

• Fresh plant trimmings

• Fresh manure (chicken, cow, horse, sheep)

• Eggshells

What Not to Include in Compost

There are many products that should not be included in your compost. Some materials can release toxins into the soil or attract rodents and pests. When making your own compost at home, avoid adding the following materials.

Do NOT include the following in compost:

• Dairy products

• Coffee pods

• Walnuts

• Bones or scraps of meat of any kind

• Fat, grease, or cooking oils

• Diseased, pesticide-treated, or insect-infested plants or grass trimmings

• Cat litter or pet urine and feces

• Charcoal or coal ash

• Large pieces of wood

What are the benefits of composting?

• Supports good bacteria needed to break down organic matter

• Reduces food waste in landfills which decreases methane emissions

• Diminishes the need for commercial chemical fertilizers

• Improves soil nutrition and moisture

• Enhances healthy plant growth

Who would have thought that you could help reduce food waste, while also providing your garden with nutrient-rich soil by practicing composting? It’s a great way to keep your plants and vegetables healthy and helps the environment—it seems like a win-win to me! What are you waiting for? Get familiar with the tips and tricks to composting so you can start with your family right at home!