Funky Composting
– by Donna Arvidson
Whether you’re following a raw foods diet or not, composting is something every environmentally-conscious individual or household should be doing.
The action of composting is pretty simple. You can compost just about anything inside your house and out that does not contain elements of metal, plastic, synthetics, or meat. Virtually all plant materials are compostable, although you may be surprised to learn of some exceptions that we should avoid adding to the compost heap.
Potatoes, Onions, and Garlic – Oh My!
Potatoes and potato peelings are examples of plant-based items that should not be added to the compost pile, as well as anything from the onion family.
Perhaps you hear yourself asking, or even exclaiming, “Why?! Why can’t I put onions, garlic or potato peelings in the compost?!?”
The reason onions and the rest of the allium family, such as garlic, chives, scallions, etc., are to be left out of composts is due to their enzymes. Although these enzymes are beneficial to us, they’re known to upset the bacteria that is required for happy composts; and so, it’s best to leave them out.
Raw potatoes should be left out of compost because they are so prone to disease. If you are planning to grow your own spuds the chances are very high they will get the disease. Experts say gardeners should purchase fresh seed potatoes each for the same reason. (By the way, did you know that although Idaho is famous for their potato harvest, they get their seed potatoes from Montana?)
Aside from the exceptions mentioned above, that pretty much allows for everything else to go to compost — paper products that are not covered in toxic ink, cotton balls, paper towels, other fruit and vegetable peelings and leftovers of everything from soup to nuts can be added to the compost pile.
The Grass Will Be Greener On The Other Side
Since you are staying away from chemically treating your lawn now your grass clippings can also be added to the heap!
Did you know the dirt you collect each time you sweep your floor is valuable and perfect for adding into your compost? Just make sure you pick out any plastic micro litter from the pile of dust and dirt before adding this wonderful composting material to your compost bin, pile, or heap.
You should also consider the vacuum cleaner and all the fine dust and debris that is collects! Adding this material to your composter will certainly be worth the effort.
One of the easiest ways to compost is to just throw everything onto a pile and sprinkle some dirt as a layer every so often. This method can also be one of the hardest ways to compost, since you’ll have to mix everything up once in awhile by stirring the top top layer into the bottom layer, and vice versa.
Even if you make a cage out of metal fencing or build one of wood, you will still have to stir the compost a few times a year to get an even breakdown of all the ingredients.
Although the easiest part is simply tossing the ingredients onto your compost pile and waiting for the results, another easy aspect to composting is in allowing earth worms to come in contact with the compost. This lets those wrigglers do the work when you are not!
Collecting Your Reward
When time has made the pile shrink and the center has decomposed, it’s time to sift the ingredients through a screen with holes about a half inch wide. The composted soil will fall through and the large pieces can be tossed back into the compost heap to complete the breakdown process.
The resulting fluffy soil has a healthy aroma and is know as black gold. This nutrient rich soil is your reward, and you can use it to nurture your own gardening efforts, whether indoors our out. And if you have plenty to spare for your own personal needs, remember you can always share with your neighbours and friends!
The rewards of compost
ing are numerous. Aside from the rewards of happy and healthy soil, a happy and healthy family, and a happy and healthy you, you’ll also be making an impact on the larger picture of global health and environmental responsibility, which is certainly no small feat.
Happy composting!