Cold composting is a slower, more passive method of composting that allows organic materials, like kitchen and garden waste, to break down naturally over time with the help of worms and other organisms. Each month, Tim helps Nelson and Tasman residents to understand how they can divert waste from landfill and make great compost at home. Here are some of their FAQs.
How often should I be turning it? When adding materials to your compost bin, it’s important to incorporate them gently. Unlike hot composting, which relies on frequent turning to speed up the decomposition process, cold composting doesn’t need as much intervention. Simply layer your green waste in with other materials like brown leaves, straw, or shredded paper. Turning the top half or quarter of the compost bin monthly can help aerate it.
Where should I put my compost? Once your compost has matured (which could take six months or more and will be black in colour), it can be used to enrich both new and established plants. For new plants, it provides a nutrient-rich base that helps improve soil structure and encourage healthy root development. For established plants, compost acts as a natural fertiliser and improves soil fertility. A trowel’s worth per plant is plenty – and be sure to water it in.
Should I dilute my worm tea or castings? Worm excretions are rich in beneficial microorganisms, and a small amount can go a long way to improving soil and plant health. You can dilute this at a ratio of 50:1 if you’re not sure how strong it is, as little and often is better than too strong. Apply it to your plants monthly – it’s especially useful in summer to help retain soil moisture and support heavy-feeding plants.
What should I put in my compost bin, and how long does it take? A 50/50 ratio of green and brown material. Typically, people put in too much green material, which can smell and create problems. Green materials like grass and vegetable scraps create wet compost, adding brown material such as cardboard, dried leaves, chopped branches, paper and sawdust creates a more balanced compost. Avoid foods that could attract rodents, such as cheese, fish, bread, and eggshells, as they will find a way in.
Where is the best place for my compost bin? As it is a cold compost system and Nelson sun is unforgiving, somewhere out of full sun is best. Ideally, place it near a garage or shed where you can store dry brown materials. The goal of home composting is to improve your garden’s soil health while reducing the amount of waste taken away from the home and garden. We find this simple method of home composting creates rich, organic matter that enhances the soil’s texture and structure. Over time, the compost will help build the soil, improving drainage and water retention while providing a slow, steady release of nutrients for your plants. There is a $20 subsidy coupon available to spend on home compost equipment with participating stores in the Nelson and Tasman region.
Happy gardening, Tim
Nelson City Council’s Rethink Waste Programme has been supporting Tim’s Garden in engaging local residents to try home composting – visit timsgarden.co.nz to book your free ticket.
