CompostingBy: Sabrina & Tahshon

Composting

Composting is the transformation of organic material (plant matter) through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost.

Invertebrates (insects and earthworms), and microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) help in this transformation.

Kinds

Bin composting Tumbler composting Sunken pail composting Sheet composting Anaerobic composting Vermicomposting

Why do it

Environmentally responsibleKeeps biodegradable waste out

of landfills and sewage plantsAlternative to burningGives you a vibrant garden

without chemical fertilizersSaves money

What it involves

Adding ingredientsMaintaining proper temperatureTurningMaintaining moistureHarvesting

Homemade

Three bins are best One to fill One that’s “cooking” One to turn others into or to draw

from

What you can compost

Yard wasteKitchen scrapsNewspaperCardboard

What not to compost

Meat scrapsBonesDairy productsPet wasteDiseased plantsInvasive weeds

Uses

Early stages as mulch Keeps weeds from growing Helps retain moisture Beneficial minerals go into soil

Later stages for soil amending Enriches soil Helps with moisture retention

Removes/reduces need for chemical fertilizers that leach into our ground water