5 Materials You Can Put in Your Compost Bin
Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create fertile soil for your garden. But what type of materials can you put in your compost bin? Let’s explore five categories of compostable materials
Nitrogen-rich materials
Also known as “green materials,” nitrogen-rich materials provide the protein that helps microbes break down carbon-based matter. You can add grass clippings, fruit and vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds to the compost bin. Make sure you chop bigger items into smaller pieces to speed up the decomposition process.
Carbon-rich materials
Carbon-rich materials also called “brown materials,” provide energy to the microbes that break down the waste. You can add items like fallen leaves, sawdust, cardboard, and shredded newspaper to your compost bin. Just like with nitrogen-rich materials, make sure to break them down into smaller pieces for quicker decomposition.
Organic matter
Organic matter refers to plant-based waste such as dead plants, twigs, and branches. These materials help aerobic bacteria to decompose your compost faster. Be sure to chop them up and mix them with nitrogen-rich and carbon-rich materials.
Eggshells
Eggshells provide a good source of calcium to your compost, which helps balance the pH levels in your soil. Crushed eggshells are harder for rodents to scavenge and make a great addition to the compost bin.
Dryer Lint
Almost everyone has a steady supply of dryer lint. This material is a great addition to your compost bin as it’s 100% organic and provides carbon to help fuel the microbes present.
Composting is a great way to minimize waste and create fertile soil for your plants. By adding the materials above to your compost bin, you’re starting your journey toward creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
