Composting not only enriches the soil of your vegetable or flower gardens but also contributes significantly to waste reduction. If you’re new to the composting world, this article offers valuable tips on creating your own compost bin and managing it effectively.
Firstly, when storing your compostable scraps, it’s not practical to deposit them in your outdoor compost bin each time you generate some. The solution? Maintain a bucket indoors where you can conveniently collect these scraps. However, avoid stashing organic waste under the sink or on the countertop as it may attract pests. An effective method is to store your bucket in a freezer to minimize odor and discourage pest infestation.
Consistently turn your compost at regular intervals – daily or every couple of days. This practice facilitates the decomposition of the organic materials. A neglected compost pile might result in a heap of decomposing veggies, emanating an unpleasant smell and inviting bugs.
Maintaining balance in your compost pile is crucial. A healthy mix of animal manure and vegetable waste results in the most fertile compost. An imbalance of either could lessen the quality of your compost.
Also, it’s important not to add excessive acidic or alkaline materials. Maintaining equilibrium between these two ensures that your plants aren’t subjected to overly acidic or alkaline compost, which could harm them.
When choosing a location for your compost bin, the full sun is your best bet. It accelerates the decomposition process, yielding better compost more quickly. Avoid setting your compost bin in a shady spot; although composting would still occur, it would be slower, leading to a potentially messy situation. The heat expedites the composting process significantly.
Earthworms are valuable inhabitants of your compost pile. You might even consider introducing some to speed up decomposition. The earthworms not only consume and excrete the organic materials but also add their own contributions to the compost quality.
If you plan to compost paper waste, ensure you shred it before adding. Shredded paper mixes more readily with the compost pile. Avoid using heavily inked paper, which could be detrimental to your plants.
Incorporate a variety of waste, including kitchen scraps like vegetable waste and eggshells, and yard waste like leaves, grass clippings, and twigs. This diverse mix will help you achieve a rich and balanced compost.
A DIY compost bin can serve as an inexhaustible, cost-free fertilizer source, transforming your backyard garden into a professionally cultivated space.
