Homemade compost is a valuable resource for gardeners, offering a boost to garden plants and reducing waste. However, it’s essential to know what to put in and what to avoid when creating a compost heap.
The Benefits of Composting
Composting has numerous benefits, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil health, and increasing crop yields. It also provides an opportunity to reduce guilt associated with food waste.
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Improves soil health
- Increases crop yields
- Reduces guilt associated with food waste
Angela Slater, a gardening expert, emphasized the importance of composting in her interview with the Express:
“Disposing of your leftovers into a compost pile rather than in your household bin reduces the amount of waste that will ultimately end up in landfills.”
She also highlighted the environmental benefits of composting, stating that it helps minimize greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.
What Not to Compost
While composting is beneficial, there are certain foods and materials that should be avoided. Angela Slater warns against adding the following items to your compost heap:
- Meat and fish
- Baked goods (cake, bread, biscuits)
- Dairy products (milk, cream, yoghurt, cheese, butter)
- Oils, fats, and processed foods
These items can attract unwanted pests, degrade the quality of the compost, and create unpleasant odors.
Some of the most beneficial materials for composting include:
- Banana peels
- Crushed eggshells
Angela Slater recommends using crushed eggshells as they provide calcium, which is essential for plant growth.
Soil Enhancing Superpowers
Composting has several soil-enhancing superpowers, including:
- Improving the soil’s ability to hold water and nutrients
- Improving the overall physical properties of the soil
This means that composting can help your garden thrive, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more productive garden.
Easing Guilt
Composting can also ease the conscience associated with food waste. By turning your scraps into a valuable resource, you can feel better about letting your food go to waste.
Angela Slater noted that enjoying your greens knowing the scraps won’t be squandered makes mealtime more gratifying.
Conclusion
Composting is a valuable resource for gardeners, offering numerous benefits, including reducing waste and improving soil health.