Choose the right composter
Discover all types of composters available on the market and done good choice depending on your needs and the space you have in your garden. There are composters in different sizes, shapes and materials, just find the one that suits you best.
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Install the composter
The secrets of successful homemade compost also reside in the location chosen to install your composter. Prefer a sunny place, but not too exposed to the weather. Make sure the compost bin is easily accessible so you can add your kitchen scraps and mix them regularly.
Understand what can be composted
Discover what waste can be composted and avoid materials that can disrupt the composting process. Kitchen scraps such as fruits and vegetables, eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, etc. are ideal for composting. Avoid fat, dairy, meat and animal products.
To obtain a quality compost, it is essential to balance the compostable materials. Alternate carbonaceous materials (dead leaves, straw, cardboard, etc.) with nitrogenous materials (kitchen waste, fresh grass, etc.). This combination results in nutrient-rich compost and promotes efficient waste decomposition.
The Secrets of a Successful Home Compost
Composting is an ecological and economical practice that allows us to reduce our waste while fertilizing our garden. But to get quality compost, there are a few secrets you need to know. In this article, we reveal the keys to successful homemade compost.
Choose the right location
The first secret to successful composting lies in the choice of location. Indeed, it is preferable to install it in the shade, sheltered from bad weather, to prevent the compost from drying out or becoming soggy, which could compromise the decomposition process.
Opt for a good structure
A good structure is essential for successful homemade compost. It is recommended to superimpose layers of waste alternating between dry materials (such as dead leaves or straw) and wet materials (such as vegetable peelings or grass clippings). This alternation makes it possible to obtain a balanced mixture and promotes the circulation of air and water in the compost.
Ensure the balance of materials
Another secret is to ensure the balance of materials added to the compost. It’s important to add carbon-rich waste (like dead leaves) as well as nitrogen-rich waste (like kitchen scraps). A good ratio between these two types of waste will promote decomposition and make it possible to obtain quality compost.
Maintain the compost
To obtain a successful homemade compost, it is necessary to maintain it regularly. This means mixing the different layers of waste, aerating the compost with a pitchfork, and checking the humidity. In fact, compost that is too dry will take longer to decompose, while compost that is too wet could develop bad odours.
To learn more about the secrets of successful homemade compost, read our detailed article “The keys to successful homemade compost revealed”.
Remember to take care of your compost and protect it from insect or small animal invasions by using natural repellents. With these secrets, you will obtain quality compost and you will contribute to the preservation of the environment while nourishing your garden in a natural way.
Manage humidity and ventilation
The secret to successful homemade compost also lies in managing humidity and aeration. Make sure the compost stays moist, but not soggy. If the compost is too dry, you can water it lightly. Also, mix the compost regularly to promote aeration and speed up the decomposition process.
Use mature compost
Once your compost is well decomposed and looks like a dark, crumbly material, it’s time to use it in your garden. Mature compost is an excellent natural fertilizer, rich in nutrients, which will nourish your plants and improve the quality of your soil.
Home Composting FAQ
- Q: Can citrus fruits be composted?
- A: Yes, but in moderation. Citrus fruits can be acidic and upset the pH of the compost.
- Q: How long does it take to get compost?
- A: On average, it takes 6 months to 2 years, depending on the composting conditions.
- Q: Can we compost weeds?
- A: Yes, but avoid weeds that have already set seed to avoid spreading weeds in your garden.
By following these secrets of successful homemade compost, you will be able to turn your kitchen and garden waste into valuable natural fertilizer. Not only will you reduce your impact on the environment, but you will also promote the health of your plants and your soil. Set up your composter, choose compostable materials carefully, balance them, manage humidity and aeration, and you’ll be well on your way to quality compost. So, embark on the adventure of home composting and make your garden a truly prosperous ecosystem!