Finishing Your Compost – The Big Payoff
Our last two blogs have explained what compost is and the different stages that make up the process of compost creation. What you may be asking yourself now is – “where do I begin??”
The first step that needs to be taken is for you to decide which method of composting you would like to use. Do you want to build a compost bin on your own or do you want to purchase a manufactured bin? Would you rather skip the bin all together and create a compost pile in an unused corner of your property?
The next step is to really start being meticulous in separating your garbage; set aside materials that can be added to your composter or to your pile. Previously, we mentioned that organic materials such as egg shells and vegetable peelings can be added, but you can also add items such as paper towel rolls and finely shredded cardboard. Do not add anything made out of plastic and stay away from adding colored paper or printer paper with colored ink. Yard waste will add the necessary amounts of nitrogen, but be careful not to add weeds to this pile as they can easily take over your compost.
The final, most difficult, step is to be entirely committed to creating your compost. It can be hard to remember to toss in every banana peel that you discard, but with a little effort it will eventually be second nature for you. In about three to four months you will be able to see the results and use your first batch of compost.
Composting is not as difficult as people may think. The biggest challenge is slightly altering your lifestyle and becoming conscious of what materials can and cannot be composted. It is a great way to add nutrients to your garden and reduce that amount of waste that would otherwise end up taking up space in a landfill.
