How to Create Your Own Compost in Your Backyard and Reduce Waste
Composting is a natural process that can help you turn kitchen and yard waste into a valuable resource for your garden. It not only reduces the amount of waste that goes into landfills but also helps to enrich the soil with nutrients. In this post, we will discuss the benefits of composting, how to get started with composting, the different types of composting methods, and some tips to help you maintain a healthy compost pile. Additionally, we will provide affiliate links to some of the best composting tools and products to help make your composting journey easier and more effective.
There are many ways to compost, but the most common methods are:
Backyard composting: This method involves creating a pile of organic materials in your backyard and letting it decompose over time. This is the easiest and most convenient method for most homeowners.
Vermicomposting: This method involves using worms to break down organic materials in a contained environment. This is a great option for those who live in smaller spaces or want a faster composting process.
Trench composting: This method involves burying organic materials directly in the soil. This is a great option for those who want to avoid a visible compost pile.
If you're looking for an efficient and easy way to compost, the VIVOSUN Outdoor Tumbling Composter is a great option. With its dual rotating batch design, you can continuously add new materials while the older ones break down. Plus, the 43-gallon capacity and durable construction make it a reliable and convenient addition to your homestead.
To create compost, you'll need a variety of organic materials, including:
Food scraps: These are a great source of nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for plants. Fruit and vegetable peels, eggshells, coffee grounds, and tea bags are all excellent choices for composting. Avoid adding meat, dairy, and oily foods to your compost pile as they can attract pests and slow down the decomposition process.
Yard waste: This type of material is high in carbon, which is another essential nutrient for plants. Leaves, grass clippings, and small branches are all great choices for composting. Avoid adding weeds or plants that have gone to seed, as they can spread and cause problems in your garden.
Other organic materials: Shredded newspaper, cardboard, and wood chips are great sources of carbon for your compost pile. They can also help to add structure and improve the airflow in the pile. Be sure to avoid using glossy or colored paper as they can contain harmful chemicals.
Animal waste / bedding: Most of your homestead animals can help make a huge impact in creating your compost. Each time you clean out the chicken coop, mix-in the pine shavings and droppings to your compost pile! Cow manure is also a great addition since it needs time to break down. Droppings from other animals such as rabbits and goats are safe to add directly to your garden spaces as they aren’t as high in nitrogen and won’t burn your plants.
It's important to maintain a balance of "green" (nitrogen-rich) and "brown" (carbon-rich) materials in your compost pile. Aim for a 50/50 balance to ensure proper decomposition.
The Worm Factory 360 Composting System is a great investment for anyone looking to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for their garden. With its compact and efficient design, this system can easily fit in any home or apartment. Plus, the use of worms to break down the organic materials makes for a faster composting process and a more sustainable way to manage food waste.
To build your compost pile, follow these steps:
Choosing the right location for your compost pile is crucial. You'll want to select a spot that's easily accessible for you but also has good drainage. It's also important to choose an area that's not too close to your house or other outdoor living spaces to avoid any unwanted odors or pests.
When it comes to adding organic materials to your compost pile, it's best to start with a layer of "brown" materials, such as dried leaves or shredded newspaper. These materials provide carbon, which is essential for the decomposition process. "Green" materials, such as food scraps and grass clippings, provide nitrogen, which helps to break down the carbon-rich brown materials. Alternate layers of brown and green materials until the pile is about 3 feet high.
Moisture is key to successful composting. You want the pile to be moist but not soaking wet. Use a hose to add water as needed, being careful not to overdo it.
Turning the pile every few weeks is important to ensure that all of the materials decompose evenly. Use a garden fork or compost turner to mix the materials and promote airflow. This will help the compost to break down faster and prevent any unpleasant odors from forming.
Alternatively, you can opt for ‘Cold Composting’ which is much more hands-off but can take at least a year or more before your compost is ready. Instead of continuously watering your compost, let it sit and let nature do its thing. Each week, or two, …. or four…. turn the pile to allow for air flow to aid in the breaking down of the organic materials.
After a few months, your compost will be ready to use. You can add it to your garden beds, mix it with potting soil, or use it as a natural fertilizer for your plants. It's important to let the compost cure for a few weeks before using it to avoid burning your plants. Creating your own compost is an easy and effective way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. By following these simple steps and using the right tools, you can create a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for your household's organic waste.
The Lotech Products Compost Crank Compost Aerator is a must-have for any serious composter. Its durable construction and easy-to-use design make it a top choice for turning and aerating compost piles.