Composting is a natural recycling process that transforms organic waste into a valuable soil amendment. It’s the controlled decomposition of organic matter by microorganisms in an aerobic (oxygen-rich) environment. This process breaks down materials like food scraps, yard waste, and paper into a nutrient-rich substance called compost. Compost acts as a natural fertilizer and soil conditioner, enhancing soil health and promoting plant growth.
Why is Composting Important?
Composting offers a multitude of environmental and economic benefits, making it a sustainable practice for individuals, communities, and businesses.
- Reduces Landfill Waste: A significant portion of household waste consists of organic materials that can be composted instead of being sent to landfills or incinerators.
- Mitigates Climate Change: Landfills are a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Composting diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions and combating climate change. Compost also sequesters carbon in the soil.
- Enriches Soil Health: Compost improves soil structure, aeration, and water retention. It provides essential nutrients to plants, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
- Saves Money: By producing your own compost, you can reduce your reliance on costly fertilizers and soil amendments.
Types of Composting
There are several methods for composting, each suited to different needs and environments.
Backyard Composting
Backyard composting involves creating a compost pile or bin in your yard. It’s an excellent option for homeowners with space to manage a compost system.
Ingredients for Backyard Composting:
- “Greens” (Nitrogen-Rich): These materials provide nitrogen, which is essential for microbial growth. Examples include:
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Grass clippings
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Tea bags (without staples)
- Eggshells (crushed)
- “Browns” (Carbon-Rich): These materials provide carbon, which acts as an energy source for microorganisms. Examples include:
- Dry leaves
- Plant stalks and twigs
- Shredded paper (non-glossy, uncolored)
- Shredded cardboard (no wax coating, tape, or glue)
- Untreated wood chips
- Water: Moisture is crucial for the decomposition process. The compost pile should be damp, like a wrung-out sponge.
- Air: Oxygen is necessary for aerobic decomposition. Turning the compost pile regularly provides aeration.
What Not to Add to a Backyard Compost Pile:
| Materials |
|---|
| Meat, fish, and bones*† |
| Cheese and dairy products*† |
| Fats, oils, and grease*† |
| Cooked food (small amounts are fine)*† |
| Compostable foodservice ware and compostable bags† |
| Herbicide-treated plants and grass |
| Aggressive weeds/weeds with seeds |
| Diseased and pest-infested plants |
| Treated or painted wood |
| Pet waste and cat litter |
| Dryer lint |
| Glossy paper |
| Produce stickers |
*These foods can attract animals.
†Backyard composting piles generally do not reach high enough temperatures to fully decompose these materials. These materials can be composted at commercial composting facilities. Check first to make sure your specific facility accepts them.
Steps for Backyard Composting:
- Collect and Store Materials: Keep separate containers for your “greens” and “browns.” A kitchen compost pail is ideal for food scraps, while leaves can be stored in bags or bins.
- Choose a Location and Bin: Select a well-drained area in your yard for your compost pile or bin. You can build your own bin or purchase a commercially available one.
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop or break down large materials into smaller pieces to accelerate decomposition.
- Layer the Compost Pile: Start with a layer of “browns” at the bottom for drainage and aeration. Then, alternate layers of “greens” and “browns,” ensuring that food scraps are always covered with a layer of “browns” to prevent odors and deter pests. Aim for a ratio of 2-3 parts “browns” to 1 part “greens.”
- Maintain the Compost Pile: Turn the pile regularly (every few days or weeks) to provide aeration and mix the materials. Monitor the moisture level and add water if the pile is dry.
- Harvest the Compost: After several months (typically 3-5), the compost will be dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling. Screen or sift the compost to remove any larger, undecomposed materials.
Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)
Vermicomposting utilizes worms to break down organic waste. It’s an excellent option for those with limited space, such as apartment dwellers.
Steps for Vermicomposting:
- Set up a Worm Bin: Purchase a worm bin or make your own using plastic storage bins. Ensure the bin has adequate drainage and ventilation.
- Add Bedding: Provide a bedding material for the worms, such as shredded newspaper, cardboard, or coconut coir. Moisten the bedding before adding it to the bin.
- Introduce Worms: Use red wigglers (Eisenia fetida), which are specifically suited for vermicomposting.
- Feed the Worms: Feed the worms fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and other suitable materials. Avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods.
- Harvest the Vermicompost: After several months, the vermicompost (worm castings) can be harvested from the bin. This nutrient-rich material can be used as a soil amendment.
Community Composting
Community composting programs offer a convenient way for residents to compost their food scraps and yard waste. These programs may involve drop-off locations or curbside collection services.
Using Your Finished Compost
Compost is a versatile soil amendment that can be used in various ways:
- Soil Amendment: Mix compost into garden beds, flower pots, and planting holes to improve soil structure and fertility.
- Mulch: Apply compost as a mulch around plants to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
- Potting Mix: Use compost as a component of potting mixes for container gardening.
Benefits of Using Compost:
- Improves soil structure and aeration
- Enhances water retention and drainage
- Provides essential nutrients to plants
- Suppresses plant diseases and pests
- Reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers
- Sequesters carbon in the soil
Composting: A Sustainable Choice
Composting is a simple yet powerful way to reduce waste, improve soil health, and protect the environment. By embracing composting, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.
