Composting Basics & Setup

Composting & Septic

Composting is a natural process that converts organic materials, such as kitchen scraps and yard waste, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment called compost. Composting is an environmentally friendly way to recycle organic waste and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

To get started with composting, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a Composting Method:

    • Backyard Composting: If you have a yard or garden, you can set up a compost pile or use a compost bin in your backyard. This method is suitable for people with a larger space and generates more compost.

    • Indoor Composting: If you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, you can opt for indoor composting using a compost bin or vermicomposting with worms.

2. Select a Compost Bin:

    • If you’re doing backyard composting, you can use a compost bin or create a compost pile directly on the ground. Various types of compost bins are available, such as tumbler bins, enclosed bins, or open-air bins.

    • For indoor composting, look for specialized bins designed for this purpose, or you can use a worm composting bin (vermicomposting).

3. Gather Composting Materials:
For successful composting, you’ll need a mix of “green” and “brown” materials:

    • Green Materials: These are rich in nitrogen and include kitchen scraps like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags, and plant trimmings.

    • Brown Materials: These are rich in carbon and include dry leaves, straw, shredded newspaper, cardboard, and small twigs.

    • For a further in-depth list check out our blog Composting Do’s and Dont’s: What to Add and What to Avoid

4. Start Composting:

    • If you have a backyard, choose a location for your compost pile or bin. Ensure it’s placed on bare soil to allow for beneficial organisms to enter the compost from the ground.

    • Begin layering your green and brown materials in the bin or pile. Aim for a balance of approximately 50% green and 50% brown materials.

    • For indoor composting, follow the instructions provided with your chosen composting system.

    • Add a thin layer of Dr. Connie’s Compost+ and Soil Additive over the material in the bin or pile.

5. Maintain the Compost:

    • Regularly turn or mix the compost to provide oxygen to the microbes, which will speed up the decomposition process.

    • Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged. Add water as needed to maintain a damp, sponge-like consistency.

    • Monitor the compost pile for any foul odors, which can indicate an imbalance of materials or lack of aeration.

6. Harvesting the Compost:

    • Depending on the composting method and environmental conditions, the compost will be ready in several weeks to several months.

    • Finished compost will be dark, crumbly, and have an earthy smell.

    • Harvest the compost by sifting out any large, undecomposed materials and use the finished compost to enrich your garden soil.

Composting is a rewarding and eco-friendly activity that can help you reduce waste while creating nutrient-rich soil for your plants. It’s essential to be patient and attentive to the composting process, as it may take some time to yield usable compost. With consistent effort, you’ll be on your way to producing your compost and contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

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