Composting offers a sustainable method to enrich garden soil and minimize waste. By incorporating organic waste into compost, gardeners can enhance the nutrient content of their soil while reducing reliance on commercial fertilizers.
According to experts, there are two primary types of compostable materials: green and brown. Green compost includes fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, tea bags, fresh grass clippings, and table scraps that do not contain meat or bones. Brown compost comprises dry leaves, wood shavings, nuts and shells, coffee filters, shredded newspaper, hay, and peanut shells. Compostable plates and utensils can also be added to the pile.
However, not all items are suitable for composting. "You should not compost any sort of meat," warns an expert in the field. These materials decay slowly and attract animals such as rats. Additionally, diseased plants should be avoided to prevent spreading disease within the garden. Pet feces are also unsuitable due to potential parasites harmful to humans.
A compost starter can expedite the decomposition process by introducing essential microbes. While available at department stores, fully decomposed compost can serve as an effective alternative starter.
For successful composting, maintaining a balance between brown and green materials is crucial. The recommended ratio is approximately two parts brown matter to one part green matter. If a compost pile becomes too wet or emits odors, adding more brown material may help restore balance.
Gardeners are advised against including cooked food with meat or dairy products in their compost piles due to potential issues with odor and pests. Moreover, coal ash should be avoided as it contains heavy metals detrimental to plant health.
To maintain effective decomposition and air circulation within the pile, regular turning every few weeks is suggested. Grass clippings are particularly beneficial for lawns when allowed to decompose over time before being used as top dressing.
Composting provides numerous benefits by enriching soil quality while reducing environmental impact through waste reduction.