What Is Composting?

Composting is the science and art of taking organic waste—essentially anything that has recently been alive—and transforming it into a rich, nutritious soil amendment known as compost. This process serves several important purposes:

1. Diverting Food from Landfills: By composting, we prevent food waste from ending up in landfills, where it would contribute to harmful emissions.

2. Reducing Harmful Emissions: Composting helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. When food scraps decompose in landfills, they produce methane—a potent greenhouse gas. In contrast, composting promotes aerobic digestion, resulting in the emission of carbon dioxide, which is less harmful.

3. Improving Soil Health: Compost replenishes depleted soils, enhances their structure, and boosts fertility. It’s like providing your garden with a nutrient-rich boost!

How Does Composting Work?

1. Microorganisms at Work: Composting involves the hard work of small microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. These tiny creatures break down organic materials.

2. Creating the Perfect Pile: In your backyard or neighborhood, a compost pile should consist of three main components:

   • Food Scraps (Greens): These are high in nitrogen and include kitchen waste like fruit and vegetable peels.

   • Woody Material (Browns): Yard trimmings, leaves, and other dry materials provide carbon. Browns create space for oxygen to move throughout the pile.

   • Water: Adequate moisture is essential for microbial activity.

3. Aerobic Digestion: Oxygen-rich compost piles allow aerobic microbes to decompose food waste. They break down sugars, proteins, fats, and fiber, emitting carbon dioxide in the process.

4. The Result: The end product is nutrient-rich compost—often referred to as “black gold.” When added to soil, compost enhances plant growth and overall garden health.

Getting Started with Composting

1. Choose a Composting Method: You can compost in a backyard bin, a worm bin, or even a designated area in your garden.

2. Layer Greens and Browns: Alternate layers of food scraps (greens) and woody material (browns) to create a balanced compost pile.

3. Turn the Pile: Regularly mix the compost pile to aerate it and speed up decomposition.

4. Patience Pays Off: Composting takes time—usually a few months to a year. Be patient, and soon you’ll have nutrient-rich compost ready for your garden.

Remember, composting is not only environmentally friendly but also a rewarding way to contribute to healthier soil and more vibrant plants. Happy composting!