Composting

Composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a soil amendment that can be used to enrich soil and support plant growth. Composting can divert organic waste from landfills and reduce methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.

Types of Compostable Materials

There are two main types of compostable materials: browns and greens.

• Browns are dry, carbon-rich materials that provide the energy source for composting microbes. Examples of browns include dried leaves, straw, and shredded paper.
• Greens are moist, nitrogen-rich materials that provide the protein source for composting microbes. Examples of greens include grass clippings, vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds.

Balancing the Ratio

It is important to balance the ratio of browns to greens in a compost pile to ensure that the microbes have enough energy and protein to break down the materials efficiently. A good rule of thumb is to have a ratio of three parts browns to one part greens. However, this ratio can vary depending on the specific materials being composted.

Materials to Avoid

In addition to browns and greens, there are some materials that should not be composted. These include meat, dairy, and oily or fatty foods. These materials can attract pests and create unpleasant odors. They can also take longer to break down and may not be safe to use in a vegetable garden.

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