Compost

                                Compost 

Compost is the result of the controlled decomposition of organic materials, turning them into a nutrient-rich natural fertilizer that improves soil quality. It is primarily composed of two types of materials:

1. Carbon-rich materials (browns):

-Dry leaves

-Small branches

-Untreated paper (like used napkins, cardboard)

-Straw

-Sawdust or shavings from untreated wood

2. Nitrogen-rich materials (greens):

-Fruit and vegetable scraps

-Coffee grounds and tea bags

-Grass clippings

-Manure from herbivorous animals (like cows, horses)

-Green plant trimmings

How Compost Works:

In the composting process, microorganisms (such as bacteria and fungi) break down these organic materials. Carbon-rich materials provide energy, while nitrogen-rich materials help in the growth and reproduction of these microorganisms. As they break down the materials, heat is generated, speeding up the decomposition. Over time, this process transforms the pile into a dark, crumbly substance called humus.

Benefits of Compost:

Improves soil structure: Compost adds organic matter to the soil, improving its ability to retain water and nutrients.

Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers: It provides plants with essential nutrients naturally.

Promotes biodiversity: Composting fosters beneficial organisms that help control plant diseases and pests.

Reduces waste: It helps divert organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions and contri

buting to a more sustainable environment.

what can be composted

Fruit scraps (please freeze these for one day before drop off)

Vegetable scraps

Coffee grounds

Tea bags

Dry grains

Nuts

Corn cobs

Egg shells (but no eggs)

Green plants prunings

Hedge trimmings

Grass clippings

Flower bouquets

Dead plants

Old potting soil (for quality control, organic mixes or those without added chemical fertilizers are preferred)

Small quantities of straw and hay (unless used for animal bedding)

Untreated wood chips and sawdust

Food-soiled unbleached paper towels and napkins

Shredded paper

Newspaper

What cannot be composted

No meat, fish, eggs, cheese or dairy products

No rubberbands, twist ties, corks or stickers

No pet waste or pet litter (even if labeled “compostable”)

No “compostable” cups, dishes, utensils (even if labeled “compostable”)

No bleached paper towels

Resumen de cómo crear composta (Translated to English):

1. Select the right location: Choose a shady, well-drained spot for your compost pile or bin.

2. Gather materials: You need a balance of green and brown materials.

Green materials are rich in nitrogen (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings).

Brown materials are rich in carbon (dry leaves, branches, paper).

3. Prepare the materials: Chop larger pieces to help them decompose faster. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily foods as they attract pests.

4. Layer the materials: Start with a layer of brown materials to aid drainage, then alternate layers of green and brown.

5. Moisten the pile: Keep the compost damp, like a wrung-out sponge. Add water if it becomes too dry.

6. Turn the compost: Every few weeks, turn the compost to aerate it. This helps speed up the decomposition process.

7. Monitor the compost: The compost should heat up as it breaks down. It’s ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and smells earthy.

In about 3 to 6 months, your compost should be ready to use as nu

trient-rich soil for plants.

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