9.5. How to Compost at Home: What Care is Necessary for Plants
Composting is a technique for recycling organic waste that transforms food waste and other materials into a rich fertilizer for plants. In addition to being a sustainable practice, composting is also an efficient way to nourish your plants and improve soil quality in your vegetable garden or garden. Here are some tips on how to compost at home and how to care for your plants.
How to Make Compost at Home
To start, you will need a compost bin. This can be a store-bought compost bin or a simple bucket or trash can with a lid. The size of the container will depend on the amount of organic waste you produce and the available space.
Add organic waste to the container, alternating layers of nitrogen-rich "green" materials, such as fruit and vegetable scraps, with carbon-rich "brown" materials, such as dry leaves and cardboard. Be sure not to include animal products, oils, dairy or diseased plants, as these can attract pests or cause a bad smell.
To speed up the composting process, cut organic waste into small pieces before adding it to the bin. Mix the contents of the container regularly to provide oxygen, which is essential for decomposition. Keep the compost moist but not soggy by adding water as needed.
After a few months, the compost will be ready to use. It should have a dark earthy appearance and a fresh earthy smell. You can use it to enrich your plants' soil, improve water retention, and provide essential nutrients for plant growth.
What Care is Necessary for Plants
Plants need proper care to grow healthy and strong. Here are some necessary plant care:
Watering
The amount of water plants need varies depending on the type of plant and environmental conditions. As a general rule of thumb, it's better to water plants deeply but less frequently than to water them lightly but often. This encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the plants more resistant to drought. However, avoid over-watering the plants as this can lead to root rot.
Light
Most plants need a lot of light to grow well. Make sure your plants get the proper amount of sunlight, either directly or indirectly. However, some plants, such as succulents, can burn if they receive too much direct sunlight, so it's important to know each plant's specific needs.
Food
Plants need nutrients to grow and flourish. The compost you made at home is an excellent source of nutrients for your plants. Also, you may need additional fertilizers depending on the specific needs of your plants.
Pests and Diseases
Check your plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases such as yellowing leaves, spots, holes or insects. If you spot a problem, treat it immediately to prevent it from spreading to other plants.
In conclusion, home composting is a sustainable practice that not only reduces the amount of waste going to landfill, but also provides a rich compost for your plants. With proper care, your plants will grow healthy and strong, contributing to a greener, more sustainable home environment.
