The idea of composting may seem like a chore and turn you off from the idea, but it can be so much more than that! Composting is not only good for your garden, but it’s also fun too! You can make your own composting bin, or you can find many plans online to take part in this organic gardening hobby. Learn about the benefits of composting, how to make your own compost pile, what kinds of objects are best for composting-and much more!
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Benefits Of Composting
Composting is not only good for the garden, but it’s also good for you! You can make your own composting bin or you can find plans to build one online.
Best of all, it will be free. For avid gardeners, this makes perfect sense-but why should people who don’t have a green thumb want to contribute?
Because starting your compost pile just might inspire you to start gardening. And that would result in more fresh veggies and fruit for everyone! A lot of places are now even letting residents recycle leaves into compost piles, making it convenient if there are trees on your property.
How to Get Started with Composting
If you’re completely new at using a composter here are some tips:
Prepping Your Compost
Before you jump into using a composter, there are a few things you should know. First, you’ll need to prep your compost pile for several months before throwing in any scraps. Don’t use seeds or fresh cut grasses because they can attract unwanted pests and animals. You’ll also want to layer your leaves, twigs, or other carbon materials with nitrogen material such as spent plants or food waste. This will provide the best mix for composting quickly without attracting too many bugs and rodents.
Nitrogen Materials
Some examples of nitrogen materials are coffee grounds, eggshells, banana peels, lawn clippings & weeds that have gone to seed. There is another important mixture that you can throw into your compost pile to speed up the decomposing process: soil. Just a small handful will help to introduce microorganisms and bacteria, which make the whole thing work much better.
Aerating Your Compost
Aside from heat and moisture, oxygen is another key ingredient in any successful compost pile. Using a pitchfork or rake to mix the materials inside of the bin allows air pockets to come together with all of those little carbon bits and pieces that are just dying to break down. Then, let it sit for several weeks until the whole thing is ready to go!
Don’t Forget About Microbes!
One last thing you should never underestimate microbes. These tiny organisms play an important in breaking down organic matter and are needed to make composting work. So be sure to add a few scoops of your microbial-rich fertilizer from time to time and enjoy the reward of fertile, nutrient-packed soil in no time!
The Tools You Need For Successful Composting
Compost bins come in all shapes and sizes. Many people choose to make their own using either wire mesh or wooden materials such as pallets or cedar fence wood. However, if you’re not inclined towards DIY projects, there are premade boxes available from nurseries and garden supply stores.
Choosing the right bin can be a little confusing given all of the options out there. Start by brainstorming what you have available to work with, whether it’s an old garbage can or small container-whatever works! You may also want to consider your space restrictions because if it’s too big, you’ll lose interest.