Biodegradable Composting

Gardeners can turn their food scraps into nutrients for their plants.

"Biodegradable" refers to materials that naturally break down in the soil. Many food products, such as those that come from plants, will break down thanks to microorganisms that eat these food products.

Fertilization

The nutrients contained in the biodegradable materials are released into the soil. Then, plants are able to take these nutrients up through their roots.

Slow Release

Gardeners often use biodegradable materials to increase the fertility of the soil. The biodegradable compost breaks down slowly so that gardeners can benefit from long-term soil fertility. Also, biodegradable gardening reduces waste since food doesn't end up in the landfill, and also costs nothing.

Aeration

To help the biodegradable process along, gardeners must make sure that the food remains moist so that the bacteria can thrive on the scraps. However, when the food gets too moist, nutrients can wash away. To keep oxygen in the compost material, gardeners should regularly turn the material to get oxygen inside it.

Compost Bags

Gardeners sometimes compost in biodegradable compost bags. These bags break down along with the food so that the bags do not pollute the environment.

Microorganisms

Bacteria are the initial microorganisms that break down the compost. Fungi follow the bacteria. Gardeners should wear gloves when handling the compost to avoid germs.

References

• Composters: Great for Lining Your Kitchen Counter Scrap Keeper
• Ohio State University: Composting at Home; Frederick C. Michel, Jr., et al.