How to make your own compost to fertilize your garden plants
Composting is an ecological and economical way to produce natural fertilizer for your garden plants. By recycling your organic waste, you can create nutrient-rich compost that will help your plants grow healthy. Here is a handy guide to making your own compost easily at home.
1. Choose a suitable location
- Place your composter in a sunny and airy place.
- Make sure that it is close to a water source to facilitate the humidification of compost.
- Avoid areas too shaded or too exposed to wind.
2. Collect organic waste
You can use a variety of organic waste to make compost, such as fruit and vegetable remains, coffee marcs, egg shells, dead leaves, straw, etc. Avoid meat, dairy products and fats, as they can attract harmful animals.
3. Alternate layers
A good way to make compost is to alter nitrogen-rich green waste layers with carbon-rich brown waste. Green waste includes kitchen remains and lawn mowers, while brown waste is materials such as dead leaves, shredded paper and straw. This alternation will help to balance the chemical composition of the compost.
4. Water regularly
Make sure to maintain the moisture of your compost by watering regularly, especially during dry periods. Dry compost will not break down effectively, while too wet compost may become odourless. The ideal humidity is that of a dried sponge.
5. Return compost regularly
To promote the decomposition of waste, return your compost regularly with a fork or shovel. This will help to aerate compost and accelerate the decomposition process. You can also add compost activators to accelerate the fermentation process.
6. Be patient
The decomposition of organic waste can take a few months to a year, depending on environmental conditions and particle size. Be patient and continue to maintain your compost regularly to obtain quality fertilizer for your garden plants.
7. Use your compost
When your compost is ready, you can use it to fertilize your garden plants. Spread a layer of compost on the soil around your plants to provide essential nutrients and improve the soil structure. Your plants will thank you with healthy and vigorous growth.
By following these simple steps, you can easily make your own compost at home and help reduce organic waste while providing your plants with natural and nutrient-rich fertilizer.