What is Composting? How to Make Compost

Did You Know That 30% of Household Garbage is Organic and May Be Turned Into Nutrient-Rich Compost?

Every day, we throw away food scraps and yard waste that could be repurposed into valuable compost. Instead of letting organic waste fill up landfills, why not transform it into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that benefits your garden and the environment?

Composting at home is an easy and eco-friendly way to reduce waste, enrich soil, and promote sustainability. In this guide, we will share a comprehensive guide on how you can start composting today.

What is Composting

Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as food scraps and yard waste, into a rich, soil-like material called compost. This process accelerates the decomposition of organic materials through microbial activity, transforming waste into a valuable soil amendment. By composting at home, you contribute to a more sustainable environment while creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Methods of Composting

1. Traditional Backyard Composting (Pile/Bin)

A simple method where organic waste is piled in an open heap or placed in a compost bin. Microorganisms naturally break down the material over time with occasional turning for aeration.

✅ Pros:
🟢 Low-cost and easy to start
🟢 Handles large amounts of yard and food waste
🟢 Produces nutrient-rich compost for gardens

❌ Cons:
🔴 Requires space and time for decomposition
🔴 Needs regular turning for aeration
🔴 Can attract pests if not managed properly

2. Tumbler Composting

Uses a rotating compost bin to speed up decomposition by mixing the contents regularly, improving aeration, and reducing odors.

✅ Pros:
🟢 Faster composting process than traditional methods
🟢 Easy to turn and mix materials
🟢 Reduces odors and pest problems

❌ Cons:
🔴 Limited capacity compared to piles or bins
🔴 Requires frequent monitoring for moisture balance
🔴 More expensive than open pile composting

3. Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)

Uses red worms (such as red wigglers) to break down food scraps into nutrient-rich worm castings, typically in a small indoor or outdoor worm bin.

✅ Pros:
🟢 Great for small spaces, including apartments
🟢 Produces highly nutritious compost (worm castings)
🟢 Minimal odor when properly maintained

❌ Cons:
🔴 Worms require specific care (moisture, temperature, and food balance)
🔴 Cannot process large amounts of yard waste
🔴 Takes time to establish a thriving worm population

4. Bokashi Composting

A fermentation-based composting system that uses inoculated bran to break down food waste, including meat and dairy, in an airtight container.

✅ Pros:
🟢 Can compost all food waste, including meat and dairy
🟢 Fast decomposition process (2–4 weeks)
🟢 Minimal odor and compact for indoor use

❌ Cons:
🔴 Requires special Bokashi bran, adding to cost
🔴 Produces a pre-compost that needs to be buried or further decomposed
🔴 Requires airtight containers, limiting capacity

5. Trench Composting

A low-maintenance method where food scraps and yard waste are buried directly in the soil, allowing them to decompose naturally.

✅ Pros:
🟢 Simple, no need for bins or turning
🟢 Enriches the soil directly where plants grow
🟢 No odor or pest issues

❌ Cons:
🔴 Takes time for waste to break down before planting
🔴 Requires outdoor space for digging trenches
🔴 Not ideal for frequent composting needs

How to Make Compost in Simple Steps

1. Select a Composting Location

Choose a well-drained spot with partial shade. This helps maintain the right temperature and moisture for decomposition. If space is limited, consider a compost bin or tumbler for convenience.

2. Set Up Your Compost System

Decide on a composting method that suits your needs. Use a compost bin, pile, tumbler, or worm bin based on your available space and preference. Proper setup ensures efficient composting and easy maintenance.

3. Collect and Balance Your Materials

• Carbon-rich materials (“Browns”): Dry leaves, straw, wood chips, cardboard, newspaper, and small branches.
• Nitrogen-rich materials (“Greens”): Fruit and vegetable scraps, grass clippings, coffee grounds, tea bags, and eggshells.
• Avoid: Meat, dairy, oils, and pet waste (they attract pests and produce odors).

Layer three parts carbon-rich browns to one part nitrogen-rich greens. This ratio helps maintain proper decomposition and prevents foul odors. Mix the materials well for an even breakdown.

4. Maintain Moisture and Aeration

Keep the compost damp, like a wrung-out sponge. If it's too dry, add water; if too wet, add more browns. Turn the compost regularly to speed up decomposition and prevent unpleasant smells.

5. Monitor and Wait

Check your compost pile regularly to ensure the right balance. Depending on your method, composting can take weeks to months. A well-maintained compost pile breaks down faster and stays odor-free.

6. Harvest and Use

Your compost is ready when it looks dark, crumbly, and smells earthy. Use it in garden beds, potted plants, or as a lawn amendment to enrich the soil and promote plant growth.

Troubleshooting Common Composting Problems

• Foul Odor? Add more dry, carbon-rich materials and turn the pile.
• Too Dry? Sprinkle water lightly to maintain moisture.
• Slow Decomposition? Ensure a proper balance of greens and browns and turn the pile regularly.
• Pests or Flies? Avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods, and cover scraps with dry leaves or soil.

Tools and Equipment for Efficient Composting

• Compost Bin or Tumbler: Available in different designs for easy composting.
• Garden Fork or Pitchfork: Helps in turning and aerating the pile.
• Bokashi Bucket: Essential for anaerobic fermentation composting.
• Compost Thermometer: Monitors temperature for effective decomposition.
• Shredder or Chopper: Speeds up decomposition by breaking down materials.

The Benefits of Composting

1. Waste Reduction: Diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions and overall trash volume.
2. Soil Health Improvement: Enhances soil texture, aeration, and water retention, leading to healthier plant growth.
3. Nutrient Enrichment: Provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support plant development.
4. Pest and Disease Suppression: Introduces beneficial microorganisms that help combat soil-borne diseases and pests.
5. Cost Savings: Reduces the need for store-bought fertilizers and soil conditioners.
6. Climate Change Mitigation: Less landfill waste means lower greenhouse gas emissions.
7. Environmental Education: Encourages sustainable practices at home and within communities.

Conclusion

Every piece of organic waste you compost is a step toward a healthier planet. By turning food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost, you’re reducing landfill waste and creating a natural soil booster for your garden.

Each small effort contributes to a more sustainable world regardless of which composting method you choose. Start composting today and turn waste into something wonderful for your garden and the environment! Share your composting experiences, questions, or tips in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!