TERRAPEUTICS.COM: Diary of a Composter

TERRAPEUTICS.COM: Diary of a Composter – Part II

Diary of a Composter – Part II

By George, we’ve done it!

We explored the yard for likely spots, looking for a place that was accessible (so we’ll actually use it!) AND didn’t take up valuable yard/garden space.

After much exploration, discussion, and measuring, we found a spot next to the bulkhead which isn’t too far from the slider doors that we access the back yard from. Some, but not too much, shoveling will be required come winter. We actually decided to “repurpose” an old plastic fencing kit and cover it with a piece of composite board. It’s working just fine and was perfect for our budget.

With its location just below the kitchen window, we even thought about making a “food chute” so scraps could slide right out, down, and in.

Meanwhile, back in the kitchen, I find myself during food prep/cleanup asking, “can I compost this?” We did a lot of research and determined the generally agreed upon items and I made a sign (to stave off those Senior moments…) Initially, we did end up putting things in plastic bags in the freezer. Then we moved to a big cookie tin. Recently, we upgraded to a stainless container that sits on the counter that we empty almost once a day.

Out in the yard, we add leaves and clippings. Mark adds occasional paper to keep the green/brown/white elements in balance. He turns it regularly and after only about a month there’s some good-looking humus in there.

What’s really incredible now is that between recycling and composting, our trash has gone down dramatically – from 2 tall kitchen bags a week to 1 bag every 2 weeks!

Stay tuned as we learn where to go from here!

Visit the EPA for more information on composting.