Composting Waste

by DoItYourself Staff

Composting waste involves a careful process of allowing carbon-based materials to break down into a substance that is usable in gardening.

How to compost waste

Composting waste involves the use of a specialized bin that promotes the breakdown of organic materials. Bins can be made as a do-it-yourself project or purchased ready-made from certain retailers. Some people prefer a three-bin method that includes separate containers for:

Newly added materials;
Mid-stage processed materials;
Finished compost that is ready for use in garden settings.

What is needed for composting waste

Beyond the waste and a bin to hold it in, these things are important for composting waste:

The right carbon/nitrogen mix – To properly break down materials, a good mix of carbon-based materials must combine with nitrogen sources, such as fertilizer. The carbon to nitrogen ratio should be roughly four to one.
Microorganism – These are essential for composting waste as the microscopic bugs help break down the carbon-based materials.
Moisture – A certain amount of water is needed to promote composting waste.
Oxygen – This is necessary to promote the rapid break down of materials.

Materials for composting waste

What to include in a compost pile is often a matter of personal choice. Most people include yard materials, but steer clear of food items that might draw pests. Kitchen wastes can be included safely when covered bins are used for composting waste.