Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Compost Like a Pro


Earlier this month, I was able to attend the US Composting Council's Compost Conference in Daytona Beach, FL. As the newest backyard composter of the bunch, I felt overwhelmed by the scale of these massive composting operations, but still left feeling more motivated than ever after being surrounded by such a passionate community. On the airplane back to Ohio (which was somehow just as warm as Florida? In February?!), I "broke down" a few takeaways that I could apply in my own backyard.

  1. Find your why. Every person who composted had a motivation that drove them to consistently put in the extra effort. Some were motivated to compost in order to restore soil health. For others, it was to reduce food waste in the landfill and slow the impacts of climate change. Many stated that they started their compost operations because they wanted to do everything they could to maintain a healthy and thriving community for themselves and for their families. What drives you?
  2. Know your limits. One of the scariest things a composter can do is grow too fast. Accepting more materials than you can handle can lead to odors and mismanaged piles. Pace yourself. In your backyard, start with just vegetative scraps. As you get more and more comfortable, you can try out other compostables such as grains, eggshells, or other surprising things you could compost, without getting overwhelmed or fatigued. 
  3. Team Up! Partnerships and community go a long way! Find backyard composters near you to discuss ideas, celebrate wins, and problem solve with. Collaboration can come in all sizes, and composting doesn't have to be a solo sport. 

And with these thoughts, I leave you with a final question: Is it time to turn your compost? 

Guest Blogger: Sam Plante

2 comments:

  1. Angel Arroyo-RodriguezFebruary 29, 2024 at 9:05 AM

    Hi Sam! It was great to see you at the conference. Great take aways/insights. I specially resonate with knowing our limits specially as we gain experience, but also with our availability to tend to our composting bins. Over the years I learned that if I'm going to travel for an extended period, to not add some compostables wastes or too much of them if they require closer monitoring during the first week or so. Be careful, but not too afraid. It's hard to create a huge unfixable disaster with backyard composting, but also, I don't want to create more work for myself! Happy composting!

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    1. It was great to see you as well, Angel! This is great advice to include, especially as we enter vacation season for many folks. Thank you and happy composting!

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