Published: 04 November 2024

Creating your own compost at home isn’t just good for the environment, it’s also a game-changer for your garden too. With a bit of know-how, you can turn kitchen scraps, garden waste, and even fallen leaves into the rich soil that your plants love. Composting may seem intimidating, but it’s much easier than you might think. Ready to dive in? Here’s everything you need to know to start composting like a pro!

The Ultimate Guide to Turning your Scraps & Waste into Soil

Pick the Perfect Spot

First things first—decide where to place your compost pile or bin. Choose a location that’s convenient for you, the easier it is to reach, the more likely you’ll keep adding to it. Ideally, your compost area should be on level, well-drained ground that’s partly shaded to help keep it from drying out too quickly. If you’re working with limited space, like a small garden or even a balcony, consider a compost bin or tumbler.

Get the Balance Right

To create quality compost, you need to balance “browns” and “greens.” Don’t worry, it’s simpler than it sounds!

  • Browns are dry, carbon-rich materials like dried leaves, straw, shredded newspaper, and cardboard.
  • Greens are fresh, nitrogen-rich materials like vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings, and even eggshells.

A good rule of thumb is to aim for a 3:1 ratio of browns to greens. Too many greens can make your compost pile smell, while too many browns can slow down the composting process. Play around with the ratio until you find what works best for you.

Chop, Chop

The smaller the pieces, the faster they break down. Think of it this way—a whole pumpkin will take much longer to decompose than one that’s been chopped into smaller bits. So, whenever possible, break down materials into manageable sizes before adding them to your compost pile. This simple step can speed up the composting process and give you that rich, crumbly compost sooner.

Turn It Up!

Just like us, compost needs air. Turning or “aerating” your compost every week or two helps the materials break down faster and prevents it from getting too compact. Use a pitchfork or compost aerator to mix things up. If you’re using a compost tumbler, give it a spin to ensure everything is getting enough oxygen.

Keep it Moist, But Not Too Wet

Think of your compost as a sponge—it should be damp but not soaking wet. A compost pile that’s too dry will slow down the decomposition process, while one that’s too wet can start to smell. If it’s looking a little dry, sprinkle some water over it. If it’s too wet, add more browns like leaves or shredded paper to absorb the moisture.

What to Avoid

Not everything belongs in a compost pile! Here are a few things you should avoid:

  • Dairy, meat, and oily foods: These items attract pests and take much longer to break down.
  • Pet waste: Stick to garden waste and food scraps, as pet waste can introduce harmful bacteria.
  • Diseased plants or weeds with seeds: These can introduce unwanted elements into your garden when you eventually use your compost.

How to Know when it’s Ready

You’ll know your compost is ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and has a fresh, earthy smell. At this stage, it’s packed with nutrients and ready to be added to your garden beds, used as a mulch, or mixed into potting soil for an extra boost.

Making your own compost is like gardening magic! Not only are you reducing waste, but you’re also creating something incredibly valuable for your plants. Plus, once you get the hang of it, composting becomes a fun and satisfying habit. So, grab your kitchen scraps, pile up those leaves, and get started. Your garden will thank you!

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