What Is Compost?

When you think of trash, what comes to mind? A smelly and unpleasant garbage bin? A chore that needs to be done every week? Litter that destroys the beauty of the world around you?

All of these things may be true. However, did you know that trash can also have its uses? It’s true! Certain types of trash can be transformed into something that your garden will greatly benefit from. In the United States, about 30% of all garbage consists of food and yard waste. Landfills are filled with items like coffee grounds, orange peels, egg shells, and much more. A large portion of this waste can actually be repurposed into something incredibly useful.

Composting is an excellent method for recycling these types of waste. It is a process that relies on microscopic organisms to break down organic materials, transforming them into a nutrient-rich soil called compost.

You can think of composting as a natural life cycle of organic matter. They grow, die, and decay. Then, they become new soil that nourishes other living things. Tiny microorganisms and earthworms assist in speeding up this process by consuming some of the organic materials.

Composting is a natural process. However, you can encourage and facilitate it by creating compost piles in your yard. You can also choose to build or purchase compost bins to use. In order to create the ideal conditions for composting, you will need organic waste, soil, water, and air.

The soil provides the microorganisms that will decompose the organic waste. The air supplies oxygen, while water helps to accelerate the process. Organic waste can come in various forms, such as fruits and coffee grounds. Even leaves and grass clippings can be composted. Vegetables and egg shells are also excellent additions.

To start a compost pile, you need a mixture of both carbon and nitrogen. Carbon is found in organic materials like leaves, straw, and woody substances. Nitrogen can be obtained from fruit and vegetable waste, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. A healthy compost pile consists of approximately one-quarter nitrogen and three-quarters carbon.

As the microorganisms break down these materials, they release carbon dioxide and heat. A well-maintained compost pile will become quite warm, with temperatures reaching as high as 100-150° F!

It is important to keep the composting process active. To do so, regularly turn and water the pile. This ensures that the necessary oxygen is distributed throughout the pile.

You can compost a wide range of items. However, there are certain things that should not be included in a compost pile. Meat and dairy products contain a high amount of fat, which can cause the compost pile to emit unpleasant odors. Additionally, it is best to avoid adding human and animal waste, as they can carry diseases and parasites.

Are you ready to start your own compost pile? Ask a friend or family member to assist you in finding the perfect location. Then, gather all the organic waste you can find. Before you know it, you will have compost that can help nourish your flowers, vegetables, and anything else you decide to plant!

Try It Out

Engage in these activities with the guidance of an adult friend or family member!

• Do you use any items on a daily basis that could be composted instead of thrown away? Keep a record of what could go in a compost pile. After a week, share your list with someone you know. Can they think of anything else to add?
• If you’re ready to start composting at home, the first step is to get permission and probably some assistance from an adult. If they’re not sure about composting, show them today’s Wonder of the Day and explain how environmentally-friendly it is! Then, you can go through these instructions together to begin.
• Are you still curious about why compost is beneficial for a garden? Read more about composting and gardening. Afterwards, share what you’ve learned with a friend or family member.

FAQ

1. What is compost?

Compost is a natural and organic material that is formed through the process of decomposition of organic waste. It is commonly used as a fertilizer and soil amendment in gardening and agriculture. Composting involves the breakdown of organic matter, such as leaves, grass clippings, food scraps, and other plant materials, by microorganisms. This decomposition process results in the creation of nutrient-rich compost, which can improve soil structure, retain moisture, and provide essential nutrients for plant growth.

2. How is compost made?

Compost is made through a process called composting. It involves combining organic waste materials in the right proportions and providing the ideal conditions for decomposition. The key ingredients for making compost include green materials (such as fresh grass clippings and kitchen scraps) and brown materials (such as dried leaves and wood chips). These materials need to be mixed together and kept moist. The decomposition process is facilitated by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, which break down the organic matter into smaller particles. Regular turning or mixing of the compost pile helps to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process.

3. What are the benefits of using compost?

Using compost has numerous benefits for both the environment and plants. Compost enriches the soil by adding organic matter, which improves soil structure and enhances its ability to retain moisture. It also provides essential nutrients for plant growth, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Compost can help suppress plant diseases and pests, as well as prevent soil erosion. Additionally, composting helps to divert organic waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a more sustainable waste management system.

4. How can compost be used?

Compost can be used in various ways to improve soil quality and promote plant growth. It can be spread on the garden or lawn as a natural fertilizer and soil amendment. Compost can also be used as a potting mix for container gardening or as a top dressing for existing plants. When planting new trees or shrubs, adding compost to the planting hole can help improve soil conditions. Additionally, compost can be used for making compost tea, a liquid fertilizer that can be applied directly to plants. Overall, compost is a versatile and valuable resource for sustainable gardening and agriculture.