The Ultimate Guide to Composting: From Greens and Browns to Worms and Bins
Composting is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to reduce waste, improve your garden’s health, and support sustainability. And the best part? You don’t need a fancy system to get started! Let's dive into the basics of composting, break down common household items that can fuel your compost, and explore different methods—whether you’re interested in in-bed composting, worm composting, or the classic backyard pile.
The Basics: Greens and Browns
When composting, balance is key. Compost is made up of two main components: greens and browns. Greens are nitrogen-rich materials, while browns provide carbon. Together, they create the perfect environment for microbes to break everything down into rich compost.
Here’s a breakdown of what you likely already have around the house that can go into your compost bin:
Greens (Nitrogen sources):
- Fruit and vegetable scraps (banana peels, apple cores)
- Coffee grounds and filters
- Grass clippings
- Plant trimmings
- Tea bags
- Fresh leaves
- Eggshells (crushed)
Browns (Carbon sources):
- Dried leaves
- Paper towels and napkins (non-printed, non-oily)
- Cardboard (ripped into small pieces)
- Newspaper (shredded)
- Toilet paper rolls
- Twigs and small branches
- Straw or hay
By alternating between layers of greens and browns, you'll give your compost the variety it needs to break down efficiently. A common rule is to aim for about two-thirds browns to one-third greens for a well-balanced compost pile.
Countertop Composting: Start Small, Think Big
If you're just starting out or don't want to make multiple trips to your outdoor compost pile, a countertop compost bin can be a game-changer. I have a small compost bin on my kitchen counter that I take out every day or so. I’ll dump my coffee grounds in daily and collect all the fruit scraps throughout the day. It’s such a simple routine that helps prevent waste and adds rich nutrients to my compost pile.
Another great tip? Paper is a surprisingly good carbon source. I collect all of the non-shiny paper from my junk mail, shred it, and toss it into my compost pile out in the yard. It’s an easy way to recycle something you’d normally toss and keep your compost pile balanced with those essential browns.
Tools to Simplify Backyard Composting
While you don’t need fancy equipment, having the right tools can make backyard composting easier:
- Compost bin or tumbler: A bin keeps things neat, while a tumbler makes turning your compost simple, which helps with aeration.
- Compost thermometer: Helps you know when your compost is at the right temperature for breaking down quickly.
- Pitchfork or compost aerator: To turn the pile, allowing air to circulate.
- Compost screen: A simple way to filter out larger chunks and separate finished compost.
If you prefer low-cost or DIY, a simple wire mesh or wooden pallet setup can do the trick. For smaller spaces, a lidded plastic bin with holes drilled for airflow works just as well.
Types of Composting
Standard Backyard Composting
The traditional approach involves piling up layers of greens and browns in a bin or open space. Over time, microbes break everything down, resulting in nutrient-rich compost. Regular turning, proper moisture levels (think of a damp sponge), and patience are key. This method works for most people who have yard space and don't mind waiting 6 months to a year for finished compost.
In-Bed Composting
Want to take composting directly to your garden? In-bed composting is as simple as digging a trench in your garden bed, burying your kitchen scraps, and letting nature do the work. This method works wonders in the fall when garden beds are winding down. Over the winter, the buried scraps will break down, enriching your soil without ever having to move a pile.
Worm Composting (Vermicomposting)
Worm composting is perfect for those with limited space or for people who want to compost indoors. You’ll need a worm bin (which you can make or buy) and some red wiggler worms. Worms break down food scraps faster than traditional composting and leave behind worm castings—one of the richest composts you can use! Just remember, worms don’t do well with certain items like meat, dairy, or citrus. Keep them well-fed with veggie scraps, coffee grounds, and cardboard for a thriving worm farm.
Final Thoughts
Composting is a fantastic way to turn everyday waste into garden gold. Whether you have space for a large backyard compost pile, prefer a simple worm bin under your sink, or want to enrich your soil through in-bed composting, there’s a method for everyone. The important part is to just get started—no fancy equipment required, just some food scraps, yard waste, and a little time.
At Restoring Roots, we love sharing tips like these to help you cultivate a healthier, more sustainable landscape. If you're looking for guidance on how to incorporate composting into your garden design or simply want to learn more about native plants and eco-friendly practices, reach out! We’re here to help you grow your garden and live more sustainably!
Happy composting!