Food scraps refer to the leftover or unused parts of food that are typically discarded during the preparation and consumption of meals. These scraps can come from fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, and other food items. This first step involves diverting food scraps that would otherwise contribute to landfills, which generate methane gas.
Compost piles work by harnessing the natural decomposition process of organic materials. Comprising a mix of "browns" rich in carbon, like dry leaves or wood chips, and "greens" rich in nitrogen, such as food scraps, the compost pile provides an ideal environment for microorganisms like bacteria and fungi to break down the materials. This decomposition process generates heat, reaching temperatures that facilitate the breakdown of organic matter, kill weed seeds and pathogens, and accelerate the transformation of the pile into nutrient-rich compost. Regular turning or aerating of the pile ensures proper oxygen supply, and maintaining the right balance of moisture supports the microbial activity. Over time, the compost matures into a dark, crumbly substance that can be used to enhance soil fertility and structure, completing the cycle of recycling organic waste into a valuable resource for gardening and landscaping.
Compost fertilizer works by providing a rich source of essential nutrients to plants and improving soil structure. Compost is a nutrient-dense organic material created through the decomposition of kitchen and garden waste. When incorporated into the soil, compost releases a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other micronutrients gradually, promoting healthy plant growth. The organic matter in compost enhances soil structure by improving water