Plum's weekly web series provides easy tidbits on how to locally bring global change.
Think grass clippings, banana peels and dried leaves are just trash? Think again. This week Earth Bytes looks at composting, the science of using organic materials to enhance soil and grow plants. Here's a starter guide on why composting will benefit the environment and how to get started.
Why compost?
- Compost can suppress plant disease and pests.
- Compost replaces commercial (and often toxic) fertilizers.
- Compost is free.
- Compost keeps household waste out of landfills.
Get Started
- Find a dry, shady spot near a water source in your yard for the pile.
- Add carbon “brown” ingredients (twigs and dried leaves) and nitrogen “green” elements (coffee grounds and grass clippings) as you find them. Good compost should be balanced - check the EPA compost site for measuring ratios.
- Keep the pile damp (not too wet because it’ll smell) and stir it frequently. The extra O2 will help decomposition and prevent smell.
- Avoid using meats, pet droppings, diseased plants, fat, grease or too much nitrogen-rich material. You'll spread bacteria, attract animals and stink up the neighborhood.
- When material at bottom is dark and rich, you’re ready to compost.
For tips, uses and more general info on composting check out compostguide.com, composters.com and epa.gov/compost.
Video
Think trash is just trash? Think again. This week Earth Bytes looks at composting, the science of using organic materials to enhance soil and grow plants. Here's a starter guide on how to use grass clippings, banana peels and more to benefit the environment and your wallet.
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