If you looking to reduce your waste and create a valuable resource for your garden, composting is a great option. Composting is the process of transforming organic materials, such as kitchen scraps and garden waste, into nutrient-rich soil conditioner.
To begin composting you’ll need to get yourself some composting equipment and have a space set out where it will all take place. Depending on the size of your yard, you can decide whether you want a permanent composting bay or barrel, or a mobile solution like a bucket, bin, or tumbler.
A Tumbleweed Gedye compost bin is a simple but effective way to compost. It is a large, enclosed bin that can take most household and garden waste. It has a lid that can be locked to keep pests out and an open bottom so the bin can be lifted off to access the finished compost. To use a gedye compost bin, you can follow the below steps:
- Begin by finding a suitable spot for your bin. It should be shaded and well-drained, away from direct sunlight and strong winds.
- Start by adding some organic compost and straw to the bottom of the bin. This will help create air pockets and drainage for the composting process.
- Add alternate layers of green and brown materials to the bin. Green materials are rich in nitrogen and include kitchen scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings, and fresh leaves. Brown materials are rich in carbon and include newspaper, cardboard, shredded paper, sawdust, and dry leaves. Aim for a ratio of 2 parts brown to 1 part green.
- Keep the bin moist but not soggy. You can spray some water on the layers as you add them or use a watering can to wet the whole pile occasionally. The compost should feel like a wrung-out sponge.
- Turn the bin at least once a week. You can use a garden fork or a Tumbleweed compost aerator to mix the materials and introduce oxygen to the pile. This will help speed up the decomposition and prevent odours.
- Harvest the compost when it is dark, crumbly, and smells earthy. This can take anywhere from 3 months to a year, depending on the materials and conditions. You can lift the whole bin off the pile and use what's underneath.
After following these steps, you’ll have your dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling compost which is now a nutrient-rich soil conditioner waiting to be spread across your garden. Spread this as you would fertiliser and reap the benefits while knowing you’ve had a positive impact on the environment. Compost provides many nutrients to your plants and garden, and helps it retain moisture. It also reduces the need for fertilising your garden and plants and makes them more resistant to diseases.
If you’re interested in getting started with composting and still have more questions, visit your local Stratco Garden Centre and see one of our qualified experts for more advice. We have an extensive range of composting equipment to help you reduce your waste and create your own soil conditioner in your backyard.