photo by Eva Elijas from PexelsComposting is a beautiful process that can be as difficult or easy as you make it. I definitely believe in the latter, so here's my simplified explanation of the basics of composting.
A small disclaimer: no information about containers for your compost, this info is only about items that can go into the compost. If you want container information for composting, checkout my podcast at anchor.fm/greenatlmom
First things first, compost needs carbon/browns and nitrogen/greens. Many experts say a good ratio of browns to greens is 4:1. Please keep that in mind, however, the more you work with your compost you'll get a good feel for what your compost may need more or less of. I'll also give you two things to watch out for after the list.
Next up is a small list of items that can go into the compost pile.
Carbon/Browns
- Dry Leaves
- Straw
- Newspaper
- Toilet paper rolls
- Paper towels
- Unwaxed cereal boxes
Nitrogen/Greens
Grass clippings
Coffee grounds
Garden waste
Food waste
Brown materials add bulk to the compost and help the air circulate. If you break down any browns as small as possible, this will speed up the compost process.
The green materials provide the nutrients to the compost and again, break them down as well, if you want a speedier process.
Things you don't want in your compost pile:
Dairy products, i.e, milk/sour cream....odor problems can occur, which can attract rodents and flies. Fat lard or oils shouldn't be used, either, can attract pests, as well.
No pet waste should ever enter a compost pile, it might contain parasites, bacteria or viruses.
Diseased or insect ridden plants shouldn't be added to compost because these sources might survive and transfer to the new plants you'll eventually feed with the compost.
The last Don't is a big one: No yard trimmings that have been treated with chemical pesticides.
A little further up, I spoke about the ratio of browns to greens to have for a good compost pile. Well, I also said, I'll give you some clues to help you adjust your pile, if need be.
First clue is, if the compost pile has a strong putrid smell and very slimy.....the pile has too much nitrogen, and needs more carbon. Remember carbon adds bulk, which will help soak up excess water in your compost and help the with air circulation.
The second clue is: if your compost pile is slow to breakdown, then it has too much carbon and will need more nitrogen. You'll know when you've got the right combonation when the compost feels spongy and smells earthy.
Oh wait...I said all of that and I don't believe I said one word about turning the compost....well...give the compost one good weekly turn, at least.
Now what are you waiting for, keep growing and get composting!
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#composting
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