Make Every Day Earth Day: Backyard Composting – A Simple Step for a Healthier Planet
by Janet Buck Johnson
• Water – Moisture, like a wrung-out sponge, keeps microorganisms active. • Air – Turning the components prevents anaerobic, smelly conditions. Dennison recommends a 3:1 or 2:1 brown-to-green ratio. “Adjust as you observe your compost pile,” Dennison advised. While the right balance helps compost break down efficiently, Laura Kelm, an environmental scientist and "lazy composter," doesn’t worry about ratios. “I just put it all in,” she said. “It may not break down as fast as someone paying close attention, but for me, it's mainly about keeping food scraps out of the trash.” BENEFITS OF COMPOSTING Dennison and Kelm emphasize composting's environmental benefits. Beyond soil enrichment, it significantly reduces waste. “Instead of sending scraps to landfills, where they create methane, composting repurposes them,” Dennison explained. Other benefits: • Healthier Soil – improves structure, moisture retention, and microbial diversity • Less Need for Chemical Fertilizers – acts as a slow- release natural fertilizer • Lower Trash Volume – reduces landfill waste • Environmental Impact – cuts greenhouse gas emissions GETTING STARTED WITH COMPOSTING Starting is simpler than most think. “You don’t need fancy equipment—just the right mix of materials,” Dennison said. She suggests considering these factors: • Location – Pick a spot convenient for regular use. If your bin is too far, you’ll use it less. Also check your HOA guidelines before starting. • Available Materials – No trees? Use shredded paper (non-glossy), cardboard (no wax, tape, or glue), plant stalks, twigs, sawdust, or wood chips. Coffee drinkers can add used grounds for nitrogen. • Compost Bin or Pile? – Piles, bins, and tumblers all work. Dennison prefers ground-based bins for better microbial activity.
As Earth Day approaches, seek simple ways to reduce waste and help the planet. One of the most impactful is backyard composting. Join the Composting Workshop at Quiet Waters Park on Saturday, April 26, for a live demonstration at noon on the Wildwood Trail. Learn how to turn food scraps into nutrient-rich soil and reduce waste. Can’t make it? No worries—this guide covers all the basics to get you started at home. WHAT IS COMPOSTING? Composting breaks down organic materials into a nutrient- rich soil amendment. Pam Dennison, Master Gardener and certified Master Composter, has taught composting workshops in Anne Arundel County since 2009. “Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi do most of the work, breaking down material with oxygen and moisture,” she explained. The final product is dark, crumbly, and pH- neutral, perfect for enriching soil. Compost requires four key ingredients: • Carbon (browns) – Leaves, shredded paper, cardboard, and even dryer lint provide structure and energy. • Nitrogen (greens) – Fruit, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and fresh grass clippings add nutrients.
10 | THE MOTHERLODE
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