10 Tips You Need To Know Before You Start Composting

Recycling organic waste into compost offers various environmental benefits. It helps improve soil health, reduce the waste stream, reduce methane emissions from landfills, and conserve water, among others.

Before we get started on composting tips, let’s understand what composting is.

WHAT IS COMPOSTING?

Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a valuable fertilizer that can enrich soil and plants. It is a great way to reduce your food waste and contributions to greenhouse gas emissions.

The best way for you to compost at home depends on the following factors:

• Where you live
• Availability of space
• How much organic waste you produce
• What type of organic waste you produce
• How much time you can spend on the composting process

10 COMPOSTING TIPS AND TRICKS.

1. A composting pile needs the right nitrogen and carbon ratio in order to survive and thrive.
   Nitrogen comes from green materials such as fruit and veggie scraps, manure, green leaves, grass clippings, etc.
   Carbon comes from brown materials such as dry/dead leaves, wood chips or shavings, twigs, shredded newspaper, etc.
2. Add the right layers to your compost pile. Start with a base layer of brush, hay, or straw. Then, add a layer of brown materials with a thin layer of garden soil. Next, add a layer of green materials and top it with garden soil. Continue alternating between layers until your compost is full.
3. Make sure you mix and layer to help the compost react and break down the way it should.
4. Avoid adding pet droppings, animal products, and diseased plants to your compost pile, as these will not break down properly.
5. Like any other plant or flower, the inside of your compost also needs water. So, ensure you check the moisture level of your compost and add water accordingly.
6. Ensure that you “turn the pile” every week. This refers to mixing the contents of the compost to release any air holes and helps get oxygen throughout your compost pile. You can either use a pitchfork or a shovel for this.
7. Pick the right spot for your compost. Ideally, it should be level and well-draining.
8. Algae and seaweed make excellent additions to your compost pile. Remember to wash them to remove any salts before adding them to your compost.
9. Dice and shred your materials before adding them to the compost as it creates more surface area for the enzymes and microorganisms to decompose. This helps to increase the composting process.10. The composting process can continue even during winter. Even if the scraps freeze, they’ll thaw and decompose in the spring. So, don’t stop composting during winter! Creating a compost pile doesn’t need to be overwhelming or complicated. The benefits of composting are more significant than any of the cons that might come with it. So, take your step towards a cleaner and greener planet by starting composting today!

Remember, creating finished compost can take anywhere between 6-12 months. Hope you find these tips helpful in starting your compost pile.

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