How to Compost!

By Henry Zheng

How to Compost!

As excessive food waste and teeming landfills are becoming increasingly problematic, many are looking to the old art of composting in order to keep Earth clean and green.

A study done by compost advocate Sodgod showed how a household that composted ended up removing roughly 500 pounds of organic.

Composting is the act of taking organic materials and decomposing then into a decomposed solution that is then commonly used as plant fertilizer.

As murky and unappealing compost is, it is one of the most effective ways that individual households can go green.

The mixture is almost like superfood for plants, containing ample nutrients such as nitrogen and carbon, which allows plants to grow past expectations and truly thrive.

Not only does composting benefit plants, but it also benefits us. People who compost more are inclined to be green and garden, as well as gain confidence towards the path of self-sustenance and providing for oneself.

As complex as composting seems, the process is actually quite easy, and requires a few ingredients you probably already have.

1. The perfect composting base needs a perfect amount of carbon and nitrogen. This is where the concept of “browns and greens” come in. Browns usually consist of leaves, straw, and woody materials, which all contain tons of carbon. On the other hand, greens like fresh scraps, food scraps and manure have ample nitrogen content. It is important to note that you shouldn’t use any meat, dairy, and fatty leftovers in your compost as this will attract pests and possible spread diseases to your plants.
2. After obtaining the perfect compost mix, we have to look for a good composting spot. When choosing your designated compost spot, look for somewhere that’s shady and dry.
3. Then, get a leftover recycling bin or a cardboard box and layer your compost in layers of “browns” and “greens.”
4. Water your mixture to moisten it up and turn your compost with a shovel every so often to ensure the breakdown process happens as efficient and evenly as possible.
5. And you’re done! Wait for your compost to be ready. It should take a few weeks or so, depending on the amount that you put in your composting bin.

Even if outdoors composting is not an option, the US EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) suggests indoors composting as a valid alternate that will produce nearly the same results. However, if this route is taken, there needs to be extra caution when developing your compost so that you don’t attract various pests and unwanted insects into your home.

Once your compost is ready, it’ll be able to serve you on all your plant needs.

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