With sustainability becoming more important in our daily lives, finding ways to reduce waste is a priority for many households. One simple yet impactful way to do this is through composting. Composting not only reduces the amount of waste that goes to the landfill, but it also creates nutrient-rich compost that can be used to enrich soil, grow healthier plants, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. At Ryland Environmental, we’re all about helping our clients find sustainable solutions, and composting is an easy way to turn trash into treasure.

Here are some simple composting tips to get started:

1. Choose the Right Composting Bin

Selecting the right composting bin is key to successful composting. You can opt for an outdoor composting bin or an indoor version if space is limited. Many people even build their own compost bin using wooden pallets or wire mesh. Make sure it has proper ventilation and a way to turn the compost.

2. Balance Your Ingredients

Composting requires a good mix of “green” and “brown” materials. Greens are nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings. Browns are carbon-rich items like dried leaves, cardboard, and paper. The ideal ratio is about 3 parts brown to 1 part green to keep your compost balanced and odor-free.

3. Avoid These Composting No-Nos

Not everything can be composted. Avoid adding meat, dairy products, fats, oils, and pet waste, as these can attract pests or introduce harmful bacteria. Stick to organic kitchen waste and plant-based materials for the best results.

4. Turn and Water Regularly

Compost needs oxygen and moisture to break down efficiently. Make sure to turn your pile every few weeks to aerate it and add water as needed to keep the pile moist, but not soggy. This will help speed up the decomposition process.

5. Be Patient

Composting takes time, but the results are worth it. Depending on the size of your compost pile and how often you turn it, you can have fresh compost in as little as 3 months. Once it’s ready, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost that you can use in your garden to improve soil quality and support plant growth.

By following these simple composting tips, you can significantly reduce the amount of waste you send to the landfill and create something valuable for your garden. At Ryland Environmental, we encourage everyone to explore sustainable practices like composting to help protect our environment and reduce waste.

Start Following These Composting Tips Today

Ready to start turning trash into treasure? Composting is a simple, eco-friendly solution that benefits both your garden and the planet. With these composting tips you can start small, stay consistent, and you’ll soon be reaping the rewards of your efforts.