Compost & Compost Bins

Is it worth getting a compost bin?

A compost bin is a great addition to any garden! Organic compost is a natural fertiliser, which can help you achieve sustainable gardening practices, reducing your reliance on chemical fertilisers. Incorporating composting into your gardening routine is a simple way to improve soil health and promote organic gardening.

By composting at home, you can reduce your organic waste and prevent it from ending up in landfills. The compost you make at home is also likely to contain more nutrients, which is more beneficial for your soil. And don’t worry about any mess, with a compost bin composting is tidy and controlled.

Is homemade compost any good?

Homegrown compost is full of nutrients essential for growth and plant health. When you compost, you are breaking down organic matter, such as food scraps, garden waste, and leaves, into a dark, crumbly substance called compost. This compost can be added to your soil to provide essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Incorporating composting into your gardening routine is a simple way to improve soil health, and with some gardening tips and garden design inspiration, you can create a beautiful and sustainable garden that benefits both you and the environment.

What can you put in compost?

You can put organic waste and food waste in your compost bin or pile. Common items you could put in your compost are:

• Bananas
• Rotten fruit
• Eggshells
• Vegetable scraps
• Coffee grounds and filters
• Tea bags (if they’re made of paper)
• Paper towels (if they are unbleached)
• Hair and fur (in small amounts)
• Shredded cardboard and newspaper
• Yard waste

What are 3 things you shouldn't compost?

Not everything can be put in your compost bin or pile. Here are three things you should never put in your compost bin:

• Meat and Dairy: Because these materials break down slowly, they can cause a bad smell and attract pests.
• Oils and Fats: These materials can also slow down decomposition due to their greasiness. They can also kill the good microbes developing in your compost.
• Weeds with seeds: Adding weeds with seeds into your compost can cause them to regrow and spread throughout your garden, worsening the weed problem.

By adding these to your compost bin you risk attracting pests, slowing down the composting process and contaminating your compost overall.

Is it better to have a compost pile or bin?

The choice between the two comes down to individual preference. A compost pile is a great cheap way to start composting, however it can be messy and attract pests. It’s also possible it can have a bad odour if you don’t manage the compost well. Compost bins protect you from bad odors and pests since the compost is contained. They are also much tidier, but compost bins can be quite pricey overall. Depending on what pros and cons are most important to you, will vary which option suits your garden.