Composting is something that alot of people shy away from. I agree, it is basically a bunch of stuff we normally would sit out for trash collection. However, if you have a garden, like to plant flowers, or grow herbs, good soil nutrients are very vital. A nutrient rich soil will help maintain a pH balance, provide a balance of nitrogen, magnesium, calcium. These are all very important in supplying your plants with what they need to grow. As the cost, well of just about everything, continues to rise it is time that we look for alternatives. You know, like they did back in the "old days".
What most Americans do not know is that the soil in our country is very lacking of proper chemical soil balance. Thru improper crop rotation, nutrient depleted soil, a lack of understanding organic necessities. All these factors not only lead to a lack of bounty at harvest time, but opens a wide range of problems for the plants. When a plant becomes stressed, then that is when disease and the bothersome pests arrive. Having a rich healthy soil is just as important as the time you put into taking care of your plants.
So we should turn and look at how we can make our own rich healthy soil for our plants, and that is composting. I mean have you priced a bag of peat moss or Miracle-Gro bags of soil lately? Well, composting can achieve the same goal at the fraction of the cost. You can just about throw anything in there you want to, within reason. Alas you say, anything? Well, not exactly anything but you will be surprised what you can. The obvious ones are leaves, twigs, newspaper, cardboard, etc. But did you know things you throw in your trash from the kitchen can be used as well?
Just think how many banana peels, skin off tomatoes, onion skins, the center roll things from paper towel and toilet paper, lemon peels, orange peels, used napkins, grass clippings. Get the picture? Now you don't want to put in a composter things like diseased plants, metal, stuff like that. But common sense will prevail about it, and its trial and error. The best thing is leaves and twigs, then make a layer of dirt on top, and repeat a few times. Then over time toss in things. Now you will want to add in a little water to keep it damp, but not soaked. And a pitchfork may be a good investment because every so often you will have to go out and turn it over and mix it up. You want it covered from the rain and in a couple months or so, maybe sooner, you have nutrient rich soil! You can even toss in some worms and it is a good idea as they help with the decomposition.
I have looked around for some economical ones, but still sturdy and reliable. Plus big enough to turn out a good amount of soil. I have alot of plants around here and a good sized garden. The one I picked up has very good reviews and around $100. I got it on Amazon and would suggest if you are in the market to try it for yourself and save some money along the way, this would be my suggestion. Sturdy, enough room, has a lid to protect from the rain. So if that is something you would like to give a try, order one and lets make some dirt!
Its a clickable link so here you go:
