Any gardening enthusiast should explore the benefits of do-it-yourself composting. Creating nutrient-rich compost not only helps you grow a robust, healthy crop but is also emotionally rewarding. Composting is a great way to implement recycling in an incredibly positive way. To create the compost, you can use decomposing organic materials, kitchen scraps such as vegetable peelings, grass clippings, and dry leaves. You’ll gather all the substances in a simple bin for effective decomposition.

Doesn’t Composting Smell?

Many would-be DIY composting enthusiasts worry the organic process will smell. When carried out correctly, a compost bin will have an extraordinarily rich, deep earthy aroma that most people do not find in the least bit unpleasant. 

Benefits of Composting

You will be creating your very own nutrient-rich soil additive that your plants will adore. However, there are other benefits to DIY composting that cannot be overlooked.

• Eco-friendly
• Reduces your carbon footprint
• Helps lower methane emissions
• Creates beneficial bacteria and fungi in the soil
• Enriches the soil so it can better retain moisture
• Helps to suppress plant pests and diseases
• Reduces or eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers
• Provides a great feeling of satisfaction

Home DIY Composting

You have options when it comes to creating your own compost pile at home. You’ll need tools, such as a shovel or hand trowel to regularly mix the compost, plus a hose to keep the mixture moist with water. 

Tips on Home Composting

• Pick a shady spot located near a water source
• Form either a compost pile or use a compost bin
• Start adding brown and green material to form the compost
• Chop or shred any large pieces to encourage faster decomposition
• Moisten the compost with water but do not saturate it
• Mix in grass clippings, leaves, and any green waste
• Bury vegetable and fruit under at least 10 inches of the compost material to encourage effective decomposition 
• Cover the top of the pile or bin with a tarp or lid to keep the compost moist
• Regularly mix the compost 
• Use the compost as needed when it starts to appear dark and rich

It can take from two months up to two years to develop a flourishing compost pile or effective compost bin.

Composting Indoors

You might be surprised to learn you can compost indoors if you want to add organic material to house plants, but you don’t have any outdoor area. Most garden supply and home improvement stores sell specialized bins that are made for indoor composting. The bins are small and easy to use. You’ll want to keep track of what you compost and always keep it covered properly to avoid attracting rodents or other pests into your home. Usually, a small in-home compost bin will take two to five weeks to break down enough for use.

DIY composting is a thoroughly satisfying experience, and can be fun for the whole family. The results of composting is essentially giving back to the Earth everything you have taken by contributing to the natural life cycles of the planet. The benefits of composting are truly wondrous as you use the nutritious and balanced soil you’ve made to nourish your plants.