The fact, however, is that even if you don’t have lots of space, there are still significant reasons to compost your kitchen scraps. What’s more, it’s quite easy for renters to compost, even without a vast yard or garden! Compost is great for all kinds of uses and can help you live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
This guide touches on the basics of composting, along with what it is, why people do it, and the actions you require to begin.
What is composting?
In the most primary terms, composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a rich soil amendment. This “amendment” can then be utilized to improve the quality of your garden soil, aid your plants to grow, and likewise act as a natural fertilizer.
When you compost, you’re duplicating nature’s process of breaking down organic matter. By executing this, you’re making a product that is good for the environment and highly beneficial for countless green, growing things!
Why compost?
There are quite a lot of very good reasons to compost, but really, one of the most critical is that it assists in lessening the amount of waste that goes into landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, food waste and yard trimmings make up more than 20 percent of what is transmitted to landfills annually, and these materials can take years to break down.
Another more significant reason to compost is that it aids in improving the quality of your garden soil. Compost enriches the soil with nutrients that plants require to grow, and it supports improving of the soil’s structure, making it better able to retain water and resist pests and diseases.
What can be composted?
Nearly any kind 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, try this helpful guide from the EPA.)
How do I start composting?
Countless Trenton renters don’t ascertain that they can compost their food waste at home. By composting, you can minimize your garbage output and assist the environment. Here are some points to make a great start:
- If needed, get in touch with your landlord or Trenton property manager in connection with attaining permission to compost on the premises.
- If you stay in an apartment or condo, there may already be a community compost bin that you can make use of. Check with your building management to find out.
- If you have a little yard or patio, think of obtaining a small compost bin to keep your food waste in until you’re ready to dispose of it properly. You can get these bins at a lot of hardware stores or online.
- Begin gathering 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, take it to your compost bin and add it to the pile. Ensure to mix it in well in such a way it breaks down effectively.
- When your food waste has broken down, you can utilize it as fertilizer for your plants or donate it to a local community garden.
Composting is an effective 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 going with composting today!
Are you searching for your new rental home – possibly one with a much bigger yard or garden? If so, check our listings online to easily find your next home.