What is Composting and Why Does it Matter?
Composting is nature’s way of recycling. It’s the process of breaking down organic materials—like food scraps, leaves, and garden waste—into a nutrient-rich product called compost. Microorganisms do the hard work, but they need oxygen to thrive, which is why proper airflow is important.
So, why is composting so good for us and the planet?
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It cuts greenhouse gas emissions by keeping food waste out of landfills, where it would otherwise release harmful methane.
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It improves soil health, helping it hold onto water, reduce erosion, and even minimize flooding after heavy rainfall.
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It enriches the earth, giving plants the nutrients they need while also trapping carbon in the soil instead of letting it escape into the atmosphere.
In short, composting is a simple, powerful way to make a positive environmental impact right from your backyard.
What Do You Need for Composting?
Getting compost right is all about balance. The four essentials are: carbon (browns), nitrogen (greens), water, and air.
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Browns (carbon-rich materials): dry leaves, twigs, shredded paper bags, and plant stalks.
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Greens (nitrogen-rich materials): fruit and veggie scraps, coffee grounds, and crushed eggshells.
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Water: keeps your pile moist but not soggy.
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Air: turn your pile regularly to give those microorganisms oxygen.
🚫 Things to avoid: meat, bones, cheese, dairy, pet waste, herbicide-treated plants, and greasy foods. These items can attract pests or disrupt the composting process.
What is Vermicomposting?
Vermicomposting takes composting one step further by inviting earthworms into the mix. Instead of relying only on microorganisms, worms help break down organic waste, creating a supercharged soil amendment called worm castings (vermicompost).
The result? A dark, crumbly, nutrient-rich material that gardeners call “black gold.” It’s one of the most sustainable ways to recycle food scraps and yard waste while boosting your garden’s health.
🌱 Want to learn more?
Check out these great books on composting and sustainable gardening to dig deeper into the topic!
The Complete Guide to Working With Worms
Month-by-month Gardening in Michigan
