Want to start composting but not sure where to begin? We have put together our top 10 tips to get you started. Soon composting will be second nature to you and you will feel so much better about your contribution to the environment.
Tip 1. Prepare Your Compost Bin
You don’t have to go out and buy an expensive compost bin that resembles a spacecraft to start composting. If you are handy with a hammer, you can build your own compost bin from old pallets, as shown in the image above or just use an old plastic bin or large container. Once you have something large enough to fit your waste into then you are set to go. Place the bin in an area of your garden that tends to get the most sunlight.
Tip 2. Use a Kitchen Container
To save hassle going out to the compost bin every time you peel a banana, it is advisable to keep a container or small caddy bin in the kitchen that you can empty at the end of each day. At VivaGreen we have created a fully biodegradable range of compost bags and our GreenSax Paper Bag is the perfect kitchen composting companion, as you can through the bag straight into the compost bin and rest assured that the bag is 100% compostable.
Tip 3. Food
A lot of foods can be thrown into your compost bin including all vegetables, fruits, coffee grounds and even eggshells! It is important to keep meat, dairy products, oils and fats away from your compost bin though, as these products can attract rodents and insects to the garden.
Tip 4. Garden Waste
Don’t forget to save all those grass clippings after you mow the lawn! Instead of dumping it further down the garden add it to your compost heap. You can also add all those Autumn leaves to the compost heap too.
Tip 5. Cardboard And Paper
The recycle bin can fill quickly and you can be left with a lot of paper and cardboard especially around the holidays! By adding any cardboard and shredded paper to the compost bin, you not only create compost but you can save space in your recycle bin too, while still doing your bit for the environment. Just make sure that there are no plastics or glue on the paper or cardboard as this wont biodegrade.
Tip 6. Cotton
Did you know that you can compost your old t-shirt with the holes, that you feel bad about throwing in the garbage? Well as long as it is made from cotton, it is completely compostable!
Tip 7. Evenly Mix Fresh And Dry
Image from http://pioneersettler.com/
Make sure to evenly mix your compost waste to include a mixture of fresh green waste such as waste food, vacuum dust and manure along with a mixture of dry brown waste such as dead leaves and shredded paper. The fresh green waste will provide nitrogen and the dry brown waste will produce carbon, both needed to create compost.
Tip 8. Stir That Compost
Image from http://www.plowhearth.com/
Make sure to get out into the garden at least once a week and mix your compost. If you are serious about composting and have invested in a rotary style compost bin then this should be an easy job. Beginners can start off by finding a long stick or gardening tool and mix the compost by hand. It is important to stir your compost regularly as this will aerate and produce the compost more quickly.
Tip 9. Water
Make sure to keep an eye on your compost bin and if it seems to dry, then sprinkle a little water throughout. Don’t add too much water, just enough to dampen the compost!
Tip 10. Use Your Compost
Once your compost is ready you can use it to fertilize your garden! For a clean and tidy way to manage your waste before it reaches the compost bin, try the GreenSax bag range, with bags to fit all bin sizes and even minis suitable for nappies or dog waste! All bags are 100% biodegradable and safe for the environment!
