Composting 101

Composting 101

Composting 101: Turning Waste into Garden Gold

Composting is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to support a healthy garden while reducing household waste. At its core, composting transforms organic material—like food scraps, leaves, and yard debris—into nutrient-rich soil. This process not only improves your garden’s fertility but also helps reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions. It is the only action a person can take that physically gives back to the earth.

The Basics of Composting

Every compost pile needs a balance of “greens” and “browns.” Greens include items like fruit peels, vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds. Browns are dry materials such as leaves, straw, or shredded paper. Together, these create the perfect environment for microbes and worms to break down organic matter. A good rule of thumb is to keep a 2:1 ratio of browns to greens.

How to Start Composting

Choose a location in your yard with good drainage and partial shade. A simple compost bin or an open pile will both work. Begin by layering browns on the bottom, then add greens, and repeat. Turning the pile every week helps add oxygen, which speeds decomposition and prevents odor. Within a few months, you’ll notice dark, crumbly compost forming at the bottom of the pile.

What to Avoid

All things considered, certain items should never go into your compost, including meat, dairy, and oily foods, since these can attract pests. Pet waste and diseased plants should also be avoided to keep your compost safe and healthy.

The Benefits

Finished compost enriches soil, improves structure, and supports beneficial organisms as a matter of fact. It certainly reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and helps plants grow stronger and more resilient. By starting a compost pile, you’re basically closing the loop—returning nutrients back to the earth and creating a healthier environment right at home.

As has been noted, composting is easy, sustainable, and incredibly rewarding. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your kitchen scraps turn into garden gold.