Creating your own compost
Having your own compost heap in the garden is not only a sign of sustainable behaviour, but also a great way to reduce waste and gain valuable nutrients for the garden. Creating a compost heap can be easy if you know how. Here you can find out everything you need to know to successfully create and use compost.
1. Why compost?
1.1 The ecological benefits of composting
Composting makes a significant contribution to reducing household waste. Instead of throwing organic waste in the bin, you can compost it and reduce the waste stream. This not only reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfill, but also minimises the emission of greenhouse gases that are produced when organic materials decompose in landfills. In addition, composting closes the nutrient cycle by turning plant waste back into valuable humus.
1.2 Economic aspects: Cost savings through home composting
Home composting can bring considerable cost savings. By making your own compost, you save the cost of buying commercial fertilisers and soil conditioners. You can also reduce waste fees as there is less organic waste to dispose of. Home-made compost is also often richer in nutrients and more sustainable than store-bought products, which promotes the long-term health of your plants and makes garden maintenance more efficient.
1.3 Improving soil quality with compost
Compost significantly improves the soil structure by increasing soil porosity and improving water retention capacity. This leads to better aeration and drainage of the soil, which in turn promotes root growth and plant health. The high content of organic material and nutrients in compost helps to increase soil fertility in the long term. This allows plants to become more resistant to diseases and pests and thrive better overall.
2. The basics of composting
2.1 What can be composted?
For a successful compost heap, it is important to know which materials can be composted. Suitable materials include kitchen waste such as fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds and tea bags. Garden waste such as grass cuttings, leaves, twigs and plants can also be used. These materials provide the necessary nutrients and ensure a balanced mixture of carbon and nitrogen, which is essential for the decomposition process.
2.2 What should not be composted?
There are certain materials that do not belong in compost as they can disrupt the decomposition process or release harmful substances. These include meat and fish scraps, dairy products, fats and oils, diseased plants and weed seeds. Pet faeces should also be avoided as they can contain pathogens. These materials can cause unpleasant odours and attract pests, which has a negative impact on the composting process.
2.3 The ideal location for the compost heap
The location of the compost heap is crucial for a successful composting process. A semi-shady spot that is protected from strong winds is best. The soil should be well-drained so that excess moisture can drain away. Direct contact with the soil allows microorganisms and earthworms to colonise the compost heap and support the decomposition process. The compost heap should also be easily accessible to facilitate the regular addition of materials and turning.
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3. The composting process
3.1 The right mix of green waste and brown waste
A balanced ratio of green and brown waste is crucial for the effective decomposition of the compost. Green waste such as vegetable waste and grass cuttings is rich in nitrogen and promotes the activity of microorganisms. Brown waste such as leaves and straw provide the necessary carbon and ensure a good structure of the compost heap. An ideal mixing ratio is around 2:1 to 3:1 of brown waste to green waste. This mixture enables optimum aeration and moisture regulation, which are necessary for the decomposition process.
3.2 Temperature and humidity: the decisive factors
Temperature and humidity play a key role in the composting process. The ideal temperature is between 40 and 60 degrees Celsius. Too low a temperature can slow down decomposition, while too high a temperature can kill off harmful microorganisms. The moisture content should be around 40-60% - similar to a squeezed sponge. Compost that is too dry slows down decomposition, while compost that is too moist can rot. Regularly checking and adjusting the moisture level is therefore essential.
3.3 Care and turning of the compost
Regular turning of the compost ensures an even distribution of air and moisture and accelerates the decomposition process. Turning the compost aerates it, which promotes the activity of the microorganisms. Ideally, the compost should be turned every two to four weeks. Care should also be taken to ensure that the compost is not too wet or too dry. If necessary, dry materials can be added or the compost heap can be covered to regulate the moisture content.
4. Various composting methods
4.1 Open compost heaps
An open compost heap is the simplest method of composting. It is created directly on the ground and can be extended as required. This method is particularly suitable for large gardens and allows materials to be added quickly and easily. However, an open compost heap is more susceptible to the weather and can attract pests. To prevent this, the heap should be regularly turned and covered.
4.2 Closed composters and thermal composters
Closed composters and thermal composters provide a controlled environment for the composting process. They are particularly space-saving and ideal for smaller gardens or urban areas. Closed composters protect the compost from the weather and pests and ensure a constant temperature and humidity. Thermal composters accelerate the decomposition process due to the increased heat development and enable faster production of finished compost.
4.3 Worm bins and worm composting
Worm boxes are a special form of composting in which compost worms are used to decompose organic waste. This method is particularly efficient and odourless, making it ideal for indoor areas or balconies. The worms produce high-quality worm humus, which is rich in nutrients and improves soil fertility. Worm bins are easy to maintain and require little space, making them an ideal solution for environmentally conscious city dwellers.
5. Application and use of the finished compost
5.1 Insert in the garden: vegetable beds and flower beds
Ready compost is an excellent fertiliser and soil conditioner for vegetable and flower beds. It provides important nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and improves the soil structure. The compost can be worked directly into the beds or applied to the surface as mulch. This promotes plant growth and increases the plants' resistance to diseases and pests. Regular use of compost keeps the soil healthy and fertile.
5.2 Compost as mulch and soil conditioner
Compost is an excellent mulch to protect the soil from erosion and retain moisture. A layer of compost mulch reduces weed growth and improves the soil structure by encouraging soil organisms. In addition, the mulch slowly supplies the soil with nutrients that can be absorbed by the plants. This leads to healthier and more vigorous plant growth. Using compost as a mulch is a simple and effective way to improve soil quality in the long term.
5.3 Errors and problems when using compost
When using compost, there are a number of mistakes that should be avoided. A common problem is over-fertilisation, which can lead to excess nutrients and growth problems. It is important to distribute the compost evenly and not apply it too thickly. Another problem can be the spread of weed seeds if the compost has not been heated sufficiently. Regular monitoring and careful application are therefore crucial to achieve the best results and avoid problems.
Summary
Creating a compost heap offers numerous benefits for the garden and the environment. By choosing the right materials, following the basic composting rules and regularly maintaining the compost heap, you can produce valuable humus that improves soil quality and promotes plant growth. Different composting methods make it possible to adapt composting to individual needs and conditions. Utilise the benefits of compost and contribute to more sustainable gardening.
