| Spring Fever? Think Composting! |
| Wednesday, April 9, 2008 1:34:07 PM - Middletown Ohio |
by: Jasmin Watson-El, Public Affairs Intern
 You know the old saying, "April showers bring May flowers." Many residents wonder how they can keep their garden flowers beautiful through the spring and summer months. A little planning ahead combined with a very small amount of work can make for a beautiful flower bed or vegetable garden in the future with the help of a compost bin and a bit of know-how.
Compost is made through a natural process of breaking down kitchen and yard waste into a dark, nutrient rich material. Using a compost bin helps this material form more quickly because it holds in heat and moisture. Making compost is almost as easy as watching the grass grow. Simply start with a good mix of carbon and nitrogen sources, such as leaves or grass clippings and turn the pile every few weeks. Just like that, you can have compost that is ready to use in three months.
Some important benefits for residents include stopping weeds, maintaining soil surface moisture, stopping erosion and maintaining soil temperature. Using organic compost as fertilizer is a great way to accomplish all of these goals at once.
What are the benefits of compost?
- Suppresses plant diseases and pests.
- Reduces or eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Provides excellent soil amendment for a healthier garden, lawn and house plants.
- Helps garden and house plants by improving the fertility and health of your soil.
- Saves water by helping the soil hold moisture and reducing water runoff.
There are many items at home that can be composted including, animal manure, shredded paper, coffee grounds, fruits and vegetables, houseplants, leaves, woodchips, yard trimmings, and many more! For more information about items can be composted, visit, http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/composting.
The Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services (HCDOES) is a good source to use for more information about composting and outlets to purchase compost bins. Stay posted for future compost bin sale opportunities through HCDOES. Call 513-946-7755 or visit www.hamiltoncountyrecycles.org for composting event updates or for general composting information.
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