Earth Bytes: Compost

Plum's weekly web series provides tid bits on how to locally bring global change.

Rich remnants of autumn are already piling up. From the pumpkin seeds and apple cores to the red and gold autumn leaves swiftly drifting across your lawn. You can do more with these tiny items then simply throwing them away or raking them into gigantic bags.

This week Earth Bytes looks at composting, the science of using organic materials to enhance soil and grow plants. Here's a starter guide on why composting will benefit the environment and how to get started.

Why Compost?

• Compost can suppress plant disease and pests.
• Compost replaces commercial (and often toxic) fertilizers.
• Compost is free.Compost keeps household waste out of landfills.

Get Started

• Find a dry, shady spot near a water source in your yard for the pile.
• Add carbon “brown” ingredients (twigs and dried leaves) and nitrogen “green” elements (coffee grounds and grass clippings) as you find them. Good compost should be balanced - check the EPA compost site for measuring ratios.
• Keep the pile damp (not too wet because it’ll smell) and stir it frequently. The extra O2 will help decomposition and prevent smell.
• Avoid using meats, pet droppings, diseased plants, fat, grease or too much nitrogen-rich material. You'll spread bacteria, attract animals and stink up the neighborhood.
• When material at bottom is dark and rich, you’re ready to compost.