Ever wondered what happens to all those fruit peels, veggie ends and coffee grounds after they hit the trash? When food scraps go to a landfill, they take up space and release greenhouse gases. Composting is a simple way to turn those leftovers into something useful for your garden and it’s easier than you think.
Why compost?
Composting helps reduce waste, cuts down on trash and creates a natural fertilizer for your plants. Instead of buying store-bought soil enhancers, you can make your own rich compost right at home.
Getting started is simple:
- Choose a spot: Pick a dry, shady spot outside or use a small bin inside.
- Know what to add: Fruits, veggies, coffee grounds, eggshells and yard trimmings are all compost friendly. Skip meat, dairy and oily foods as they can attract pests.
- Layer it up: Start with browns (like dry leaves or cardboard) and add greens (like food scraps). Give it a turn every so often to keep things airy.
- Be patient: Over time, your pile will break down into dark, crumbly compost that’s perfect for gardens or houseplants.
Composting as a family is a great way to teach kids about reducing waste and caring for the planet. Plus, they’ll love checking in on the pile and seeing how scraps transform into soil. With a little effort, your leftovers can help grow healthy flowers, veggies and herbs all while making a positive impact on the environment.
Kid Challenge:
Can you make a list of 10 food scraps from your snacks or meals that can go in the compost pile? Next time you’re in the kitchen, see how many you can find!
