Composting kitchen scraps is a simple and effective way to reduce waste, improve soil health, and help the environment. By composting, you can divert organic material from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden or plants. In this beginner’s guide, we will walk you through the process of composting kitchen scraps and provide tips on how to get started.
What can be composted?
Before we dive into the process of composting kitchen scraps, it’s important to understand what can and cannot be composted. Kitchen scraps that can be composted include fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and small amounts of grains, pasta, and bread. These materials are rich in nitrogen and help to speed up the composting process.
What should not be composted? Avoid composting meat, dairy, and oily foods, as these materials can attract pests and create unpleasant odors. Additionally, steer clear of pet waste, diseased plants, and weeds with seeds, as these can introduce harmful pathogens and weeds into your compost pile.
Setting up a compost bin
There are several different methods for composting kitchen scraps, but one of the most common is using a compost bin. To set up a compost bin, choose a location that receives partial sunlight and is easily accessible. You can purchase a compost bin from a garden supply store or make your own using a plastic bin, wooden pallets, or wire mesh.
To make a compost bin, drill holes in the sides and bottom of the container to allow for air circulation. Place a layer of sticks, straw, or shredded paper at the bottom of the bin to create drainage and promote aeration. You can also add a layer of soil or finished compost to introduce beneficial microorganisms to kickstart the composting process.
Composting kitchen scraps
Once you have your compost bin set up, you can start composting kitchen scraps. Collect food scraps in a countertop compost pail or a paper bag and empty them into the compost bin regularly. To maintain a healthy balance of carbon and nitrogen in your compost pile, aim for a ratio of about three parts brown materials (carbon) to one part green materials (nitrogen).
Brown materials include leaves, straw, shredded paper, and cardboard, while green materials include kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and garden waste. Layering these materials in your compost bin will help to aerate the pile and break down the organic matter more efficiently.
Maintaining your compost pile
To keep your compost pile healthy and productive, it’s important to regularly turn and aerate the materials. Use a pitchfork or shovel to mix the contents of the compost bin every few weeks to ensure that oxygen is reaching all parts of the pile. This will help to speed up the decomposition process and prevent unpleasant odors from forming.
Monitor the moisture level of your compost pile and add water as needed to keep it moist but not soggy. A well-maintained compost pile should feel like a damp sponge when squeezed, with moisture evenly distributed throughout the materials. If your compost pile becomes too dry, add more green materials or water. If it becomes too wet, add more brown materials to absorb excess moisture.
Troubleshooting common composting problems
As a beginner composter, you may encounter some common issues with your compost pile. If your compost is not breaking down as quickly as you would like, try adding more nitrogen-rich materials or turning the pile more frequently to increase aeration. If your compost pile smells bad, it may be too wet or not getting enough oxygen. Add more brown materials to absorb moisture and turn the pile to improve airflow.
If pests like flies, ants, or rodents are attracted to your compost pile, bury kitchen scraps under a layer of brown materials to deter pests. You can also cover the top of the compost bin with a lid or wire mesh to prevent animals from accessing the contents. Avoid composting meat, dairy, and oily foods, as these can attract pests and create sanitation issues.
Using finished compost
After several weeks to several months, depending on the size of your compost pile and the materials used, your compost should be ready to use in the garden. Finished compost will be dark, crumbly, and have an earthy smell, indicating that it is rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. You can use finished compost as a soil amendment, topdressing for existing plants, or potting mix for container plants.
Composting kitchen scraps is a rewarding and environmentally friendly way to reduce waste and improve soil health. By following this beginner’s guide, you can start composting with confidence and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden or plants. With a little time and effort, you can turn your kitchen scraps into a valuable resource for your home and community.
