Urban Farm Composting Made Simple

Composting is the process of breaking down organic materials like food scraps, yard waste, and other organic matter into a rich soil amendment that can be used to improve the health of your garden. Composting is an easy and eco-friendly way to reduce waste and improve the health of your plants. There are several different types of garden composting methods that you can use depending on your space, time, and resources. Here are a few of our favorite types of garden composting and how you can get started with them today.

Traditional Composting

Traditional composting is the most common and well-known method of composting. It involves creating a pile of organic matter in a designated area and allowing it to decompose over time. Traditional composting requires a mix of “greens” (nitrogen-rich materials like grass clippings and vegetable scraps) and “browns” (carbon-rich materials like leaves and paper) to create the ideal balance for decomposition. The pile should be turned regularly to aerate it and allow the organic matter to decompose evenly. Traditional composting can take several months to a year to produce usable compost, but it’s a great way to create a large amount of compost at once. We use a large 2 bin system that is made entirely from reclaimed wood. This method works great if you have space for the pile.

Vermicomposting

Vermicomposting involves using worms to break down organic matter into compost. Worms consume the organic matter and excrete castings, which are rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. Vermicomposting can be done indoors or outdoors, and is ideal for small spaces like apartments or balconies. To start vermicomposting, you’ll need a bin, bedding materials like shredded newspaper or cardboard, and worms. The worms can be purchased online or at a local garden center. We use red wiggler worms in our vermicomposting setup because they are the most efficient at breaking down material. Vermicomposting produces compost faster than traditional composting, typically within 2-3 months. This method works great for small spaces, and is less labor intensive than traditional composting.

Sheet Composting

Sheet composting, also known as lasagna gardening, involves layering organic materials directly on top of your garden bed. The layers can include things like leaves, grass clippings, kitchen scraps, and other organic matter. The layers should be watered to encourage decomposition, and over time the organic matter will break down and create compost. We use this method as well here at Hogs and Hens Urban Farm. We have had great results from layering the material and allowing nature to take its course. Sheet composting is a great way to build soil fertility and structure over time, and it can be done year-round. It’s also a great way to convert an unused or weedy garden bed into a productive growing space.

Trench Composting

Trench composting involves digging a trench in your garden bed and filling it with organic matter. The organic matter is then covered with soil and left to decompose. As the organic matter decomposes, it will enrich the soil and improve the health of your plants. Trench composting is a great way to add organic matter to your garden bed without having to move a large amount of compost around. It’s also a great way to add nutrients directly to the root zone of your plants. We employ this method in our hügelkultur beds but because this method requires digging, it is more labor intensive. This method is best if you have a large area to dig your trenches.

In conclusion, there are several different types of garden composting methods that you can use to create rich, nutrient-dense compost for your garden. We covered just a few of them today, and will ocver more options in future articles. Whether you choose traditional composting, vermicomposting, sheet composting, or trench composting, the key is to create a balance of greens and browns, turn or mix the pile regularly, and keep it moist to encourage decomposition. With a little patience and effort, you can create a thriving compost pile that will help you grow healthy, vibrant plants in your garden. If you’re looking to get started in Urban Permaculture, check out THIS link for a simple guide to getting started!