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Composting
Composting
Second to paper, yard waste comprises the largest volume of
trash and takes up the most landfill space. Composting is a fun and
easy way to keep this rich waste out of landfills and return
organic nutrients to the soil without using commercial additives.
In addition, the design of modern landfills prevent needed oxygen
and water from mixing with organic waste, inhibiting
natural decomposition.
Below are general guidelines
for creating compost. For best
results, please follow the instructions received with your
specific compost bin.
- Combine leaves, grass and yard clippings in a bin. The bin
should receive an equal amount of sunlight and shade during the
day.
- Add kitchen debris such as fruit and vegetable scraps, egg and
nut shells, paper towels, tea bags, coffee grounds and filters. DO
NOT include meat, dairy products, fat or grease.
EXCEPTION: The Green Cone by
Solarcone accepts all food products including cooked and
uncooked meat, bones and oil.
- Alternate food wastes with garden rubbish. The ideal compost
mixture contains three parts "browns" (dry leaves, brush and twigs)
to one part "greens" (food scraps, weeds and grass clippings).
A balance of damp and dry materials will speed up the composting
process. If the pile appears too dry, lightly sprinkle it with
water.
Periodically turn the materials with a pitchfork or shovel to
circulate air and distribute moisture. Don't be alarmed if it gives
off heat... this is nature taking its course! When the
mixture has turned to dark brown/black crumbly mixture, add it to
your lawn or vegetable and flower gardens. The amount of
time needed to create compost varies with the time of year, air
temperature, and moisture in your bin.
Not only have you diverted organic waste from landfills where it
will NOT decompose, but you've created a natural soil enhancer for
use on your lawn or garden.
For more details on composting, visit the website of Virginia
Cooperative Extension, Earth911,
the EPA or
contact the extension office in
your area.
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