As a renter, you may have not looked into composting your kitchen scraps. This is for the reason that, after all, composting isn’t a course of action unless you have a big garden. Right?
The fact of the matter is that even if you don’t have ample space, there are still essential reasons to compost your kitchen scraps. What’s more, it’s easy and uncomplicated for renters to compost, even without a massive yard or garden! Compost is great for all kinds of uses and can help you live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
This guide gives the basics of composting, as well as what it is, why people do it, and the procedures you ought to take to get started efficiently.
What is composting?
In the most fundamental terms, composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a rich soil amendment. This “amendment” can then be used to enhance the quality of your garden soil, boost your plants’ growth, and similarly, act as a natural fertilizer.
When you compost, you’re practically mimicking nature’s process of breaking down organic matter. In so doing, you’re forming a product that is good for the environment and importantly vital for numerous green, growing things!
Why compost?
There are considerable reasons to compost, but definitely, one of the most critical is that it supports lowering the amount of waste that goes into landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, food waste and yard trimmings make up more than 20 percent of what is delivered to landfills per annum, and these materials can take years to break down.
Another additional reason to compost is that it helps improve the quality of your garden soil. Compost enriches the soil with nutrients that plants need to grow, and helps improve the soil’s structure, making it better able to retain water and resist pests and diseases.
What can be composted?
Just about any category of organic matter can be composted, including food scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, yard trimmings, and even paper towels and cardboard. You can even compost pet hair and used kitty litter. (For a complete list of what can and cannot be composted, check over this helpful guide from the EPA.)
How do I start composting?
Lots of Bayville renters have not yet actually figured out that they can compost their food waste at home. By composting, you can decrease your garbage output and foster the environment. Here are just a few suggestions to help you start:
- If applicable, call your landlord or Bayville property manager regarding obtaining permission to compost on the premises.
- If you dwell in an apartment or condo, there may already be a community compost bin that you can administer. Check with your building management to find out.
- If you have a small yard or patio, get a small compost bin to keep your food waste in until you’re ready to dispose of it properly. You can look for these bins at most hardware stores or online.
- Commence collecting your food waste in a container. You can utilize a kitchen garbage can, a plastic storage bin, or even a grocery bag.
- When your container is full, take it to your compost bin and add it to the pile. Make certain to mix it well so that it breaks down successfully.
- Once your food waste has broken down, you can make use of it as fertilizer for your plants or donate it to a local community garden.
Composting is the best means to reduce your environmental impact, save stress on your garbage disposal, and save money on fertilizer and potting soil. By following these tips, you can start off composting today!
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