As a renter, you might not have considered composting your kitchen scraps. After all, composting isn’t an option unless you have a big garden. Right?
The reality is even if you don’t have much space, there remains a significant basis to compost your kitchen scraps. What’s more, it’s easy for renters to compost, even without a large yard or garden! Compost is great for all kinds of uses and can help you live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
This guide states the basics of composting, along with what it is, why people do it, and the steps you’ll need to do to start work.
What is composting?
In the simplest terms, composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a rich soil amendment. This “amendment” can then be used to improve the can then be utilized to enhance the quality of your garden soil, help your plants grow, and even act as a natural fertilizer.
When you compost, you’re fundamentally emulating nature’s process of breaking down organic matter. By doing so, you will produce a product that is good for the environment and particularly useful for lots of green, growing things!
Why compost?
There are many reasons to compost, but one of the most significant is that it aids in reducing 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 sent to landfills each year, and these items can take years to break down.
Another big reason to compost is that it helps improve the quality of your garden soil. Compost enriches the soil with nutrients that plants need to grow, and it helps improve the soil’s structure, making it better able to retain water and resist pests and diseases.
What can be composted?
Almost any type 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, check out this helpful guide from the EPA.)
How do I start composting?
Many Carmel renters don’t recognize they can compost their food waste at home. By composting, you can reduce your garbage production and help the environment. Here are a few suggestions to get started:
- If needed, talk to your landlord or Carmel property manager about getting permission to compost on the buildings.
- If you live in an apartment or condo, there may already be a community compost bin that you can use. Check with your building management to find out.
- If you have a small yard or patio, consider getting a small compost bin to keep your food waste in until you’re ready to dispose of it properly. You can locate these bins at most hardware stores or online.
- Start collecting 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. Be sure to mix it in well so that it breaks down
- Once your food waste has broken down, you can use it as fertilizer for your plants or donate it to a local community garden.
Composting is a great 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 started composting today!
Are you looking for a new rental home – possibly one with a bigger yard or garden? If so, view our listings online to find your next home.
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