What is Composting?

Composting is the natural process of breaking down organic waste into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. By combining green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials, you can create compost that enhances soil health and reduces landfill waste.

Types of Home Composting Methods

Aerobic Composting

Traditional backyard composting that requires oxygen to decompose organic materials efficiently.

Anaerobic Composting

A method that involves composting without oxygen, often using Bokashi bins for fermenting food waste.

Vermicomposting

Using worms to break down organic material into high-quality compost, suitable for indoor or small-space composting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Composting at Home

• Choose a Compost Bin: Select between an open pile, compost tumbler, or worm bin based on your space and needs.
• Balance Greens and Browns: Use nitrogen-rich greens (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds) and carbon-rich browns (dry leaves, cardboard).
• Maintain Moisture and Aeration: Keep your compost pile damp like a wrung-out sponge and turn it regularly for aeration.
• Monitor and Adjust: Avoid composting dairy, meats, and oily foods to prevent odors and pests.

Common Composting Mistakes & Troubleshooting

• Bad Odor: Usually caused by too many greens. Add more browns to balance.
• Slow Decomposition: May result from lack of aeration. Turn the pile more frequently.
• Pests and Rodents: Avoid adding meat, dairy, or cooked foods, and keep a lid on compost bins.

Using Finished Compost

Finished compost is dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling. Use it in your garden beds, as mulch, or mix it with potting soil to enrich plants.

Composting and Environmental Impact

By composting, you reduce methane emissions from landfills and improve soil health. Many cities also offer community composting programs to encourage sustainability.