In case you haven’t heard, this week is International Compost Awareness Week! Composting is so vital to sustainability, and what better time to learn all about it than right now! Composting actually occurs naturally out in the wild, when organic matter, such as fallen leaves and fruit, is broken down by microbes, releasing nutrients back into the soil, which new plants will then use to grow. As humans, we can adopt this natural cycle into our food systems, making them more sustainable. You can compost in your own backyard, with a bin or pile, depending on what your prefer. Generally, your compost should consist of around 1/4 green matter (vegetable scraps, grass, manure) and 3/4 brown material (cardboard, dry leaves, twigs). When the compost is ready will depend on the type of bin/pile your using, but once it is ready, you can spread it on top of some planting soil, and start your own garden! If you already have a garden, you can spread it on the soil around the plants, or wait until your next crop rotation to put some down before planting. Composting is a really beautiful process that embodies the importance of the cycle of life and death, and I hope you find it enjoyable as I do!
For more info, check out LA Compost!