Composting doesn’t need to be complicated. I’m breaking down the basics today in the hopes that you’ll want to jump on the composting train.
The ingredients of compost can be split up into 2 categories, which are nitrogen and carbon. Examples of carbon-based things are dried leaves, pine needles, small branches, eggshells, sawdust, and straw. Some examples of nitrogen-based things are grass clippings, fruit and vegetable scraps, weeds (without seeds), and manure from herbivores.
There are some things you should avoid adding to compost such as meat, grease, dairy, diseased plants, and anything that has been chemically treated.
There are all sorts of different compost bins. You could simply create a pile somewhere in your yard. Adding wire fencing around it would help keep it more contained. Or you could build a bin out of wood pallets. There are also ready-made bins you can buy like plastic barrels.
Whichever type of compost bin you choose, make sure to stir or turn your compost pile every 1-2 weeks to help keep it oxygenated.
Your compost should never stink. It should smell earthy. If it is smelly, that means it is too wet due to too many nitrogen-based things, and you need to add dry, carbon-based items to your pile to balance things out.
It really can be that simple! And not only does composting help reduce your waste, but it also creates nutrient-rich goodness for your garden and improves your soil.
For a more in depth look at the basics of composting, check out my blog at www.notjustahousewife.net!
