You've probably already asked yourself: what can really go into a composter?
It's an essential question for successful composting and avoiding the most common mistakes.
In this article, find out everything you can (and can't) put in your composter and learn how composting works to transform your organic waste into a valuable resource for your plants.
đ Not yet equipped? Explore our innovative composting solutions !
Contents
What to put in a composter
The importance of balanced compost
To obtain quality compost, it is necessary to respect a balance between two types of materials:
- 50% organic waste (rich in nitrogen): Fruit and vegetable peelings, grass clippings, coffee grounds, etc.
- 50% dry matter (rich in carbon): Dead leaves, unprinted paper and cardboard, sawdust or small pieces of wood, etc.
Nitrogen-rich materials provide the energy needed for micro-organisms to proliferate. Carbon-rich materials give compost an aerated structure. An imbalance can slow down the waste decomposition process:
- Too much carbon: compost decomposes very slowly.
- Too much nitrogen: compost becomes damp and smelly.
đĄThe importance of moisture in your compost
Moisture is a key factor in ensuring proper decomposition. Green materials naturally add moisture, while brown materials absorb excess water. Your compost should have a slightly damp texture, similar to that of a wrung-out sponge. If your compost is too dry, decomposition slows down, while excess moisture can lead to unpleasant odors and compaction.
What can I add to the compost?
In concrete terms, what can go into your compost?
Kitchen waste (peelings and fruit and vegetable leftovers), green garden waste (grass clippings, dead leaves, branches), paper and cardboard... Even unsuspected materials such as eggshells or coffee grounds can all contribute to enriching your compost.
đ Discover the full list of compostable materials below, with specific examples for each type of waste. Turn your biowaste into a valuable resource and take part in an environmentally-friendly approach!
What not to put in a composter Mistakes to avoid
To obtain quality compost, it's essential to know what not to add.
- Non-biodegradable products, such as plastic, metal or glass, should be avoided, as they do not decompose.
- Avoid glossy, plastic-coated or shiny paper, such as advertising leaflets.
- Also avoid animal food waste (meat, fish, fat), which attracts pests and can cause unpleasant odors.
- Garden waste treated with chemicals or diseased plants can contaminate your compost.
- Finally, citrus fruits and onions should be used in moderation, as their acidity can upset the microbial balance necessary for proper decomposition.
By following these simple instructions, you'll produce healthy compost that's good for your plants!
Some examples of waste that may or may not be composted
Does the cheese go into the compost?
No, cheese is not recommended. Dairy products attract pests and can cause unpleasant odours, disrupting the composting process.
Do leeks go in the compost?
Yes, leftover leeks (leaves, roots) are perfect for composting. To speed up decomposition, cut them into small pieces before placing them in your composter.
Can you put bread in the compost?
Yes, but in small quantities and only dry bread. If it's still wet, it risks fermenting and attracting pests. Mix it with brown matter to avoid these problems. Too much bread can cause mold. If you wish to compost it, cut it into pieces and mix well.
Does banana peel go in the compost?
Yes, banana peel is ideal for composting! It decomposes quickly and provides potassium, which is good for your plants. Don't forget to remove the labels before adding it to your composter.
đ Find out how to recycle your banana peels.
Can we put paper towels in the composter?
Yes, paper towels are perfect as brown materials, as long as they're not impregnated with oil or chemicals.
Does the pasta go into the compost?
Yes, cooked pasta can be added in small quantities. Make sure it contains no sauce or salt. Mix with other scraps to prevent sticking.
Are tea bags compostable?
Yes, most tea bags are compostable. However, some contain plastic. Check the composition and remove the staples before putting them in the composter.
đ Find out how to recycle tea bags.
Do peppers go in the compost?
Yes, leftover peppers (seeds, peelings) are perfect for composting. Cut them into small pieces to facilitate decomposition.
Can flowers go in the compost?
Yes, wilted or cut flowers enrich compost. But be careful not to add chemically-treated or diseased plants, which could contaminate your compost.
Can strawberries go in the compost?
Absolutely! Strawberries are compostable and enrich your compost with essential nutrients. These biodegradable leftovers are perfect for balancing your compost thanks to their nitrogen content.
đ Find out how to recycle strawberry tails.
Can weeds go into the compost?
Absolutely! Fresh or dried herbs decompose quickly. However, beware of invasive grasses like ivy, which could grow back if not properly decomposed.
Can pumpkins be composted?
Yes, pumpkins are perfect for compost! The flesh, seeds and skin decompose easily and enrich your compost with essential nutrients. For better decomposition, cut the pumpkin into pieces.
đ Find out how to recycle your leftover pumpkin.
Can walnut shells be composted?
Yes, walnut shells are perfectly compostable! Although they decompose slowly, they provide carbon, essential for balancing your compost. Remember to crush them to speed up decomposition.
đ Find out more about recycling walnut shells.
Can watermelon rinds be composted?
Absolutely! Watermelon rinds are rich in water, which helps maintain a good level of moisture in your compost. Cut them into pieces for rapid decomposition.
đ Learn how to recycle watermelon rinds.
Can melon skins and seeds be composted?
Yes, melon skins and seeds are ideal for composting. This green waste provides nutrients and decomposes easily, provided you cut it into small pieces.
đ Discover our tips for recycling melon skins and seeds.
Can citrus peels be composted?
Yes, citrus peels can be added to compost, but only in small quantities. Their acidity can upset the compost's balance. Be sure to mix them well with other materials.
đ Learn how to reuse citrus peels.
Can coffee grounds be composted?
Yes, coffee grounds are an excellent addition to your compost! Rich in nitrogen, it stimulates micro-organism activity and accelerates decomposition. You can use it pure or mixed with other waste.
đ All you need to know about recycling coffee grounds.
Our tips for successful composting
- Balance your materials: alternate between wet and dry waste to ensure a good nitrogen/carbon ratio.
- Aerate regularly: Shake your compost and mix the layers to encourage micro-organism activity.
- Keep an eye on humidity: Your compost should be as moist as a wrung-out sponge. If necessary, add a littlewater or brown matter.
Conclusion: Turn your waste into gold for your plants
With best practices and a suitable composter, transforming your kitchen waste and green waste into rich compost becomes simple and rewarding. The solutions Ceerclesolutions, whether indoor or outdoor composters, are there to support you every step of the way.
đ Check out ourinfographic on composting and start your eco-friendly journey today with Ceercle ! đ±
