9.2. How to make compost at home: What types of plants are best for home cultivation

Composting is a process of transforming organic waste into fertilizer, a sustainable practice that can be done at home and that contributes to reducing waste and improving soil quality. In this guide, we'll learn how to make compost at home and which types of plants are best for growing at home.

How to make compost at home

To start composting at home, you will need a compost bin, which you can buy ready-made or make your own out of plastic buckets or bins. The important thing is that it has at least three compartments: one for collecting waste, another for decomposition and a last one for storing the finished compost.

The organic residues that can be composted are the remains of fruits, vegetables, greens, egg shells, coffee grounds, dry leaves, sawdust and unplastered paper. Meat, dairy products, oils, feces of domestic animals, diseased plants and non-biodegradable materials such as plastic, glass and metal should not be composted.

The composting process begins with the collection of organic waste, which must be chopped into small pieces and placed in the collection compartment. Then a layer of dry material such as dry leaves or sawdust should be added to balance the moisture. The next step is to stir the mixture with a spade or garden fork to aerate and speed up decomposition.

The decomposition of organic waste is carried out by microorganisms that consume organic matter and transform it into humus, a fertilizer rich in nutrients. This process takes two to three months and during this time it is important to move the composter regularly and maintain adequate humidity, neither too dry nor too wet.

When the compost is ready, it will have a dark brown color, a pleasant earthy smell, and a fluffy texture. It can be used to fertilize plants in the garden, vegetable garden or pots, contributing to plant health and garden productivity.

Which types of plants are best suited for home cultivation

For home cultivation, the most suitable plants are those that adapt well to the home environment, that do not require a lot of space and that have a good production. Among them are vegetables such as lettuce, arugula, spinach, kale, parsley, chives, basil and mint, which are easy to grow and can be harvested several times throughout the year.

Tomato, pepper and cucumber plants are also good options for home cultivation, as they produce delicious fruits and are plants that like sun and heat. Fruit trees, such as strawberry, lemon and passion fruit trees, can also be grown at home, as long as care is taken to choose varieties suitable for growing in pots.

Medicinal plants, such as chamomile, fennel, rosemary and lavender, are great for home cultivation, as in addition to being useful for health, they are beautiful and fragrant, contributing to beauty and health. home well-being. And we cannot forget the ornamental plants, such as succulents, bromeliads and orchids, which are easy to care for and give a special touch to the decor.

Therefore, composting and growing plants at home are sustainable practices that contribute to reducing waste, improving soil quality, plant health, garden productivity and home beauty. With a little dedication and care, it is possible to turn organic waste into fertilizer and grow a variety of plants at home, becoming more self-sustainable and contributing to the preservation of the environment.