Waste
segregation and the landfill situation are a growing problem in most parts of
our country. Though articles like this one about enforcing waste segregation are heartening,
there is still a long way to go. In the meanwhile, if we all start composting
at home, we can be happy that we are doing our little bit to help. It’s an
added bonus that we would get some rich homemade compost to use in our gardens.
Here are some tips:
What can be composted? All the waste matter from your
kitchen can be composted. All the pruned and cut waste from your garden can
also go in. In short, anything that will “break down”.
What should be avoided? Oily food and non-vegetarian waste may
affect the composition of your pile and are best avoided. Also avoid any
diseased plants from your garden. For a complete list, see here.
How to start composting? Depending on the space available,
composting can be started in a bucket, terracotta pot, or a pit in the ground.
Along with the nitrogen rich wet waste, make sure to add carbon rich dry matter
such as dry leaves as well.
What is the most common problem? The composition of the composting
matter is important and you need to add enough dry matter such as dry leaves or
sawdust to keep the pile semi-humid. Leaving it to get too wet might lead to a
stronger smell, and more maggots forming in the pile.
Can I compost in a
balcony or small backyard? Yes,
you absolutely can! With a little practice you will be able to control the
composition of the compost pile very well, which leads to very less smell, and
you can keep your composting arrangement anywhere.
How long does it take? Depending on the type of matter put
in, compost can take 45 days to 3 months to form completely. When done, it will
just have the pleasant smell of wet mud.
You will
never be short of dry and pruned materials for your compost, when you have
tools like our range from Black & Decker to keep your
garden space tidy and well maintained. Do see our website for more details: http://www.blackanddeckerindia.in
No comments:
Post a Comment