Question 1

What is compostable material exactly?

Accepted Answer

Compostable materials are organic substances that can break down into nutrient-rich soil under the right conditions. These materials include food scraps, yard waste, and certain paper products. The decomposition process is facilitated by microorganisms, fungi, insects, and worms that transform the organic matter into humus.

Question 2

How do I start composting at home?

Accepted Answer

Starting a home compost is simple! Begin by selecting a suitable location or get a compost bin. Layer ‘brown’ materials (dry leaves, cardboard) with ‘green’ materials (food scraps, grass clippings). Keep the pile moist like a wrung-out sponge and turn it occasionally to aerate. For apartment dwellers, consider a worm bin (vermicomposting) or a Bokashi system.

Question 3

What is Bokashi and how is it different from composting?

Accepted Answer

Bokashi is an anaerobic fermentation process, not traditional aerobic composting. Instead of decomposing waste, it pickles it using a special bran inoculated with microbes in an airtight bin. The key difference is that Bokashi can handle all food waste—including meat, dairy, and oils—without odors, making it ideal for indoor use. The fermented end-product is then buried to fully decompose in soil.

Question 4

What is an electric kitchen composter (food cycler)?

Accepted Answer

An electric composter is a countertop appliance that uses a process of drying, grinding, and cooling to rapidly break down food scraps. It significantly reduces waste volume in just a few hours, producing a dry, nutrient-rich ground material that can be added to soil. It is a convenient, odorless, and fast alternative to traditional composting methods.

Question 5

What’s the difference between compostable and biodegradable?

Accepted Answer

Compostable materials break down into nutrient-rich soil within a specific timeframe (typically 90-180 days in a composting environment) and leave no toxic residue. Biodegradable simply means a material will break down eventually, but it might take decades and could leave behind microplastics or toxic residues.

Question 6

Can I compost meat and dairy products in a regular pile?

Accepted Answer

For home composting piles, it’s generally recommended to avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods. These items can attract pests, create strong odors, and harbor pathogens. However, specialized systems like Bokashi are designed to handle these types of food waste safely indoors.

Question 7

What is the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio measures the balance of carbon-rich 'browns' (e.g., dry leaves) and nitrogen-rich 'greens' (e.g., food scraps). An ideal ratio of about 25-30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen is crucial for microbes to decompose organic matter efficiently and without odors.

Compost with Confidence

Expert-Picked Composting & Gardening Tools

FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter, 37 Gallon

VermiHut Plus 5-Tray Worm Composter System

Lomi Classic Smart Waste Electric Kitchen Composter

EPICA Countertop Compost Bin with Odor-Free Lid, 1.3 Gallon

Espoma Organic Plant-Tone 5-3-3 All Purpose Plant Food, 4 lb. Bag

Vego Garden Raised Garden Bed Kit, 17-Inch Tall 9-in-1

Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel

Flexzilla Garden Hose with SwivelGrip, 5/8 in. x 75 ft.

What Our Users Say

Sarah Jenkins

Michael Chen

Priya Sharma

David Miller

Nancy G. Norfleet

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Start Composting?