Composting might seem like an intimidating process with its proper pH balance and tendency to be a little smelly, but it's not as challenging as many think. By keeping a few simple rules in mind and observing how your compost pile breaks down naturally, going green will basically become second-nature after a while. Plus, it's a whole lot better to upcycle those food scraps than to just toss them, especially when they can provide so many beneficial nutrients. There are many countries in the world that have mastered the art of recycling, and composting is taking that extra step toward a greener world.
Those who are fans of eco-friendly travel will probably also be fans of at-home composting. Whether a compost pile is being used for the garden or just as a way to maintain an eco-friendly lifestyle, the process still remains the same. There's a good and bad way to start a compost heap, and also a good and bad way to use a compost pile. Certain additives can drastically change the pile's natural pH while others can speed up the decomposition process, and it's all much easier than you think!
Always Mix Grass Clippings With Dirt To Speed Up The Process
For starters, a homegrown compost pile should always be a mixture of "green" and "brown". The green can absolutely be grass clippings, but it should never be mostly green. Also, any grasses or weeds should be chemical-free with no lawn treatments. For "brown" compost, pet waste should never be used - this can cause unnecessary bacteria growth. What can be used instead are dried leaves, hay, various paper products, and even wood chips or shavings.
Newspaper And Printer Papers Are Great When Shredded
They come from trees, so why not allow them to decompose into tree fertilizer? Newspaper works exceptionally well when it comes to composting, as it's easily broken down and will provide moisture absorption. Printer paper also works well but should be shredded so as to speed up the process of decay. Both provide adequate "brown" waste for composting and will be a nice contrast to any green materials in the pile.
Coffee Grounds Are Great, Ashes Are Bad
Coffee grounds are a favorite of worms and anyone who knows composting knows that worms are a composter's best friend. Not to mention, they smell great! So this is not only a good way to add brown color but also to cover up or reduce the stench that composting can sometimes give off. Ashes, such as those from the fireplace or BBQ grill, aren't the worst thing for a composting pile - but they're definitely not great for it in large amounts. These will dampen the acidic elements of a compost pile, thus requiring more acidic waste in order to keep a healthy balance.
How To Maintain A Balance Of Carbon And Nitrogen For Healthy Compost
Food scraps and grass or weed clippings provide a natural layer of nitrogen to a compost pile. However, a compost pile will not turn into healthy, good looking dirt on its own. Carbon is also required in order to complete the breakdown process. A composter will know if the pH balance of their compost heap is off based on how quickly (or not) it's breaking down, and by how many worms and plant life are working their way through it. A compost bin can also help with this and prevent outside contaminations.
Don't Stop Composting Through The Winter!
Speaking of which, composting isn't just a spring and summer activity! With a compost bin, all you need to do is make sure it's turned towards the sun (or in an area of strong sunlight) to speed up the process like it would during the summer when the sun is hotter. Ideally, anywhere between 55 and 77-degrees is ideal for worms, but actual decomposition happens rapidly at 120-degrees or more. A thermometer is helpful during the winter and bins can also be brought inside in order to maintain a constant temp.