DIY Composting

Composting can be overwhelming. Scraps. Bugs. Smells. Inside or outside? Expensive equipment. So much to consider.  

But it’s also one of the most rewarding sustainability practices. Composting is not only a fantastic way to reduce landfill mass and greenhouse gases, but it also brings you closer to nature. Let's reframe composting into a learning experience and focus on a few easy ways to dig in. No mistakes, just learnings! 

The Benefits of Composting 

By composting, you significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. This reduction is crucial because organic waste in landfills decomposes anaerobically, producing methane—a potent greenhouse gas. You also produce compost – a fantastic addition to healthy gardens and lawns. 

Collecting Scraps 

The first step in your composting journey is collecting the right kinds of scraps. Here's a handy list of what you can and can't compost: 

Compostable Scraps: 

• Fruit and vegetable peels
• Coffee grounds and filters
• Eggshells
• Grass clippings
• Leaves
• Tea bags
• Shredded newspaper

Avoid These in Your Compost: 

• Meat and dairy products (they attract pests and cause odor)
• Greasy or oily foods
• Pet waste
• Diseased plants
• Weeds that have gone to seed

Not Ready to Go All In? Drop Off Your Scraps! 

If you're not ready to commit to a full composting setup, you can still contribute! Many local community gardens and composting programs accept food scraps. This way, you can help reduce waste and support local green initiatives while deciding if a home composting project is right for you. 

A great first step is to search online for “composting drop-offs near me”. Here are a few organizations in West Central Florida that offer food scrap collection services: 

• Sarasota | Sunshine Community Compost
• Tampa | Suncoast Compost
• Tampa | City of Tampa
• St. Petersburg | City of St. Petersburg

Building Your Own Compost Bin 

Ready to take the plunge and start composting at home? Here’s how you can build your own compost bin: 

1. Buy a Bin: Start by purchasing a sturdy compost bin. You can find a variety of bins online or at your local garden store.
2. Drill Holes: Ensure proper aeration by drilling several holes around the sides and bottom of the bin. This promotes airflow, which is essential for the composting process.
3. Fill with Brown, Dried Organic Material: Begin by adding a layer of brown, dried organic materials like leaves, straw, or shredded paper. These materials provide carbon, an essential element for composting.
4. Add Soil: Next, add a layer of soil. Soil introduces microorganisms that help break down the organic material.
5. Add Food Scraps: Add your collected food scraps on top of the soil layer.
6. Stir and Cover: Stir the mixture well, ensuring the food scraps are covered by the brown materials. This helps to balance the compost and reduce odors.
7. Moisten: Lightly moisten the compost pile with water. It should be damp but not soggy.
8. Wait: Now, let nature do its work! Continue to add scraps and stir the compost regularly. In a few months, you'll have rich, dark compost ready to use in your garden.

Buying a Compost Bin 

If building a compost bin isn’t your style, you can always buy a pre-made one. Your local city goverment may offer ones for free. There are many excellent compost bins available that are designed for easy use and efficient composting. Look for one that suits your space and needs, whether it's a small tumbler for an apartment balcony or a larger bin for a backyard garden. 

Composting is a simple and effective way to make a positive impact on the environment. Whether you build your own compost bin, buy one, or drop off your scraps at a local garden, every bit helps reduce waste and greenhouse gases. Plus, you'll be rewarded with rich compost that will make your garden thrive. No mistakes, just learnings. 

Happy composting! 🌱🌿🌍 

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