Composting is one of the simplest yet most impactful steps you can take to live sustainably and contribute to a healthier planet. Each year, billions of tons of organic waste end up in landfills, generating harmful methane emissions and wasting valuable resources.
By composting, you reduce waste and create a natural fertilizer that enriches soil and supports plant growth. If you want to start composting, explore tips for starting your journey.
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What Exactly Is Composting?
Composting is a natural process where organic materials (food scraps and yard waste) decompose into nutrient-rich soil. This process mimics what happens in nature. When leaves, plants, and other organic matter decay, they create humus, which nourishes plants and improves soil structure.
Composting allows you to control and accelerate this natural process at home. It’s an excellent eco-friendly habit for living a healthy life and reducing landfill waste.
Tip #1: Create Your Own Compost Bin
Creating your own compost bin is a simple and cost-effective way to jumpstart your composting journey while repurposing old materials you may already have around your home. Many household items can double as a structure for composting, like wooden pallets or trash cans. A compost bin is even a useful and creative way to repurpose old tires!
By repurposing these materials, you divert waste from the landfill and reduce your carbon footprint. Remember to ensure proper airflow and drainage within your bin to promote the decomposition process.
Tip #2: Research the Different Methods of Composting
There are multiple different ways you can repurpose waste from composting. You should research these methods before deciding which is ideal for you and your space:
- Backyard composting is perfect for those with outdoor space. Create a compost pile or use a bin to let yard and kitchen waste break down naturally over several months.
- Vermicomposting is great for small spaces. Use red wigglers in a bin to efficiently break down food scraps.
- Hot composting is ideal for faster results. This method uses high heat and requires regular turning to speed up decomposition.
Tip #3: Know What You Can and Can’t Compost
Another tip for starting your composting journey is to research what you can and can’t compost. Generally, any organic material that can decompose is fair game, but avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily foods, as they can attract pests.
Avoid certain plants, like those with pesticides, or invasive species that can spread through compost. Aim for a diverse mix of carbon-rich “brown” materials (leaves and twigs) and nitrogen-rich “green” materials (food scraps and grass clippings) for a balanced compost pile.
Tip #4: Creatively Put Your Compost To Use
Lastly, learn how to make your new compost work for you! Beyond use as a natural fertilizer, it can work as mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect your plants.
For indoor greenery, mix compost into potting soil to give houseplants an extra nutrient boost. You can even use it to top-dress your lawn by spreading a thin layer across the grass, improving soil quality and encouraging lush, healthy growth.
Experience the Benefits of Composting Today!
We hope our guide helps you begin your composting adventure. Whether you want to protect the environment or add some nutrients to your garden, there are plenty of reasons to start your composting journey today!
