The Beginner’s Guide to Composting: How to Turn Kitchen Scraps into Garden Gold
If you're looking for a simple, eco-friendly way to enrich your garden this spring, composting is a great place to start. Not only does composting reduce household waste, but it also creates nutrient-rich soil that your plants will love. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to know to begin composting at home.
What Is Composting?
Composting is the natural process of recycling organic material—like food scraps and yard waste—into a rich soil amendment. This “black gold” can be used to improve your garden's soil structure, increase water retention, and boost plant health without the need for chemical fertilizers.
What Can You Compost?
A good compost pile needs a balance of greens (nitrogen-rich materials) and browns (carbon-rich materials).
Greens (Nitrogen):
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Tea bags (without staples)
- Eggshells
- Grass clippings
Browns (Carbon):
- Dried leaves
- Shredded newspaper
- Cardboard (non-glossy)
- Sawdust (from untreated wood)
- Straw or hay
Avoid Composting:
- Meat, dairy, or oily foods
- Pet waste
- Diseased plants
- Weeds that have gone to seed
How to Start a Compost Pile
- Choose a Location: Pick a dry, shady spot near a water source. You can use a compost bin, tumbler, or a simple pile—whatever fits your space and lifestyle.
- Build Your Layers: Alternate layers of greens and browns. Too many greens can create a smelly, soggy pile; too many browns will slow down the decomposition process.
- Keep It Moist: Your compost pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Water occasionally if it gets too dry.
- Turn It Regularly: Aerate your pile by turning it every few weeks. This helps speed up the breakdown process and keeps everything evenly decomposed.
- Wait for the Magic: Depending on conditions, compost can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to fully break down. You'll know it’s ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling.
Why Compost?
- Reduces household waste
- Improves soil health and structure
- Helps retain moisture in your garden
- Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers
- Supports beneficial organisms and microbes
Need Supplies? We’ve Got You Covered!
Ready to start composting? Whether you’re looking for compost bins, pitchforks, garden gloves, or brown bag liners, Baker’s Ace Hardware in Monroe, MI has everything you need to get started. Stop in or give us a call—we’re here to help with all your home and garden needs this spring!