There are a few guidelines to follow when it comes to composting, regardless of whether you are an experienced composter or a novice who is eager to get started. You need to be aware of what you can and cannot add to the pile in order to make sure that your compost heap is more than just a collection of rotting household trash and is genuinely beneficial to your garden. By including non-compostable materials, you run the risk of making your compost smell bad, luring pests, and failing to decompose.
Fundamentals of Composting
Natural decomposition, or composting, is a process by which organic materials decompose into nutrient-rich mulch that is excellent for your plants. You need a mixture of carbon-rich materials, sometimes referred to as “browns,” and nitrogen-rich materials, also referred to as “greens,” for your compost to be successful. Additionally, your compost needs air and water, which are infused by rotating your heap once each week and adding moisture.
When constructing your compost bin, make sure to use 2 parts brown material to 1 part green.
What can be composted and what can’t?
Composting is not an option for all waste at home. The list below is of materials that should and shouldn’t be composted. As a general guideline, avoid adding anything to your compost if it appears like it might cause your pile to smell, attract bugs, or include things that won’t decompose on their own.
Recommended to Compost
• Dryer lint
• Teabags, coffee grinds, and filters (no staples)
• Newspaper and shredded paper
• Broken eggshells
• Several speciality mail-and-package bags
• Leaves, grass clippings, and other types of green garbage
• Rice, pasta, and breadcrumbs (in tiny amounts)
• Animal fur
• Leftover vegetables
Do Not Compost
• Grease, oil, and fat
• Dairy, meat, and fish products
• Trash bags
• Seafood
• Pest- and disease-ridden plants
• Seeded weeds
• Labels, glossy or coated paper, and charcoal
• Pet waste and cat litter
Is your compost issue not listed above? Contact the helpful team at Pulse Lawn Mowing & Gardening if you require assistance with composting or anything gardening-related! We are specialists in all thing’s garden related, so we can give you some helpful advice as well as a comprehensive selection of professional gardening services. Call us on 1300 697 857 today for a free quote!
