As a renter, you might have yet to contemplate composting your kitchen scraps. After all, composting isn’t a choice unless you have a huge garden. Right?
The reality is that even if you have limited space, there are still vital reasons to compost your kitchen scraps. What’s more, it’s easy for renters to compost, even without a large yard or garden! Compost is great for all kinds of uses and can help you live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
This guide explains the basics of composting, like what it is, why people do it, and the means you’ll need to take to begin.
What is composting?
In the easiest forms, composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a rich soil amendment. This “amendment” can then be utilized to increase the quality of your garden soil, help your plants grow, and even function as a natural fertilizer.
When you compost, you’re mimicking nature’s process of breaking down organic matter. As a result, you’re producing a thing that is good for the environment and extremely beneficial for lots of green, growing things!
Why compost?
There are multiple advantages to compost, but one of the most crucial is that it minimizes the quantity of waste that is deposited into landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, food waste and yard trimmings make up more than 20 percent of what is thrown into landfills per year, and these things can take years to break down.
Another key benefit to composting is that it helps improve the quality of your garden soil. Compost enriches the soil with nutrients that plants need to grow, and it helps improve the soil’s structure, making it better able to retain water and resist pests and diseases.
What can be composted?
Almost any type of organic matter can be composted, including food scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, yard trimmings, and even paper towels and cardboard. You can even compost pet hair and used kitty litter. (For a complete list of what can and cannot be composted, check out this helpful guide from the EPA.)
How do I start composting?
Many Wilbraham renters need to realize they can compost their food waste at home. By composting, you can reduce your garbage output and help the environment. Here are a few tips to get started:
- If desirable, discuss obtaining permission to compost on the property with your landlord or Wilbraham property manager.
- If you are staying in an apartment or condo, you can utilize a community compost bin. Check with your building management to find out.
- If your yard or patio is compact, consider acquiring a small compost bin to keep your food waste in until you’re ready to dispose of it properly. You can find these bins at most hardware stores or online.
- Begin placing your food waste in a container. You can use a kitchen garbage can, a plastic storage bin, or even a grocery bag.
- When your container is full, transport it to your compost bin and add it to the pile. Ensure that you thoroughly mix it in so that it breaks down
- When your food waste has broken down, you can use it as fertilizer for your plants or donate it to a local community garden.
Composting is a great way to reduce your environmental impact, save stress on your garbage disposal, and save money on fertilizer and potting soil. By following these tips, you can get started composting today!
Are you in search of a new rental home – perhaps one with a greater yard or garden? If so, go to our listings online to locate your next home.
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