Summary

Definition of composting

The keys to good composting

2 types of compost bins

Definition of composting

Composting is the recycling of organic waste to produce a natural fertilizer, compost. Interestingly, 30% of household waste can be composted as composting is both ecological, economical, and practical in the following ways:

• ecological: composting limits the quantity of waste;
• economical: compost is a natural and free fertilizer;
• practical: it promotes and improves the fertility of your garden over time.

The keys to good composting

Three basic rules of composting: mix, aerate, moisten.

– Mixing the waste you want to compost well will start the fermentation process.

For the transformation to occur, you need both dry waste (dead leaves, straw…) and wet waste (grass, turf…).

– Do not exceed 20 cm for each layer of organic matter.

For the first two months, mixing the compost must be done at least every two weeks.

– Aeration is essential as it provides the necessary oxygenation to the mixture. The supply of oxygen is vital to the micro-organisms involved in the processing of the waste.

– Moisten the compost. If there is not enough moisture, the micro-organisms die, and the transformation stops. And, too much moisture leads to a lack of aeration, which slows down the process.

The most popular way to make your compost at home is the compost bin.

Composting is the recovery of waste through a natural transformation using micro-organisms. The compost bin or silo is more suitable for households. The process is more straightforward because the waste protection in the bin allows the compost to have a more homogeneous composition.

Still, the compost should be checked every time you add waste.

There are 2 types of compost bins.

1. The wooden compost bin

Advantages of the wooden compost bin:

The compost bin provides better protection from bad weather, cold, and dryness. Besides, it is more aesthetic than plastic.

Disadvantages of the wooden bin:

It lasts less time because wood is less resistant to moisture and heat created by the composting process. Also, it is more expensive than plastic bins.

2. The plastic compost bin

Advantages of the plastic compost bin:

– It takes up very little space and allows you to use it for relatively small areas. 300 m².

– It enables you to compost quickly, from four to five months.

– It gives a homogeneous mixture.

Disadvantages of the plastic compost bin:

It requires regular monitoring to prevent the compost from drying out or being too wet.

The volume of plastic bins is limited, from 400 to 600 liters for the models found in department stores.

Good to know: the composting process is slow compared to the daily increase of your waste. You can, therefore, use two composters at the same time. The first to keep the compost maturing, and the second to put your waste as you go.

Compost bin: the three essential elements

The choice of the model depends on your needs and its capacity, but the composter must have three essential elements:

1. an easy opening to put the waste regularly and mix it properly,

2. adequate ventilation,

3. a hatch for the recovery of mature compost.

Capacity and surface area of a compost bin

By evaluating your yard and kitchen waste capacity, you can choose the capacity of your composter.

300 to 400 L: ideal for a four-person household with a maximum surface area of 500 m 2.

600 L: the composter can accept slightly larger garden waste. It is also suitable for a four-person household with a surface area of 500 m².

More than 600 L: the composter can accept waste with a surface area of more than 1000 m².

Good to know: it is preferable to have two composters with smaller capacities rather than one large composter.

Where to place your compost bin?

The location of the composter is random. Nevertheless, it is necessary to follow a few recommendations:

– Avoid placing it near water sources and on soil that is too sandy.

– Place it in a sheltered location.

– Think of the location’s practicality to optimize its use: near plantations that will benefit from the compost.

That’s it. You are now done with making good compost at home. Please, remember to share your comments in the section below.