Finding simple, sustainable and practical ways to contribute back to our environment has become a crucial endeavour. One method with immense benefits for both the earth and your Garden is composting. 

In this blog, we will delve into the numerous reasons why composting and adding it to your garden is worthwhile and a fantastic way to nurture a vibrant and thriving garden during winter. 

What is composting? 

Composting is a sustainable and natural way to recycle organic waste and create a valuable Soil amendment for gardening purposes. Not only is it good for the environment, but it is good for your garden too. 

Throughout winter, composting plays a vital role in maintaining healthy soil as it creates a controlled environment that encourages the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms, bacteria, fungi and other decomposers. Over time, materials in the compost pile transform into dark, crumbly and earthly-smelling compost full of rich nutrients, beneficial microorganisms and organic matter. 

It can then be used to enrich garden soils, improve their structure, enhance moisture retention and provide essential nutrients for plant growth.

What can I compost? 

There are several materials you can use for composting during the winter months that come from inside your kitchen or simply from your backyard. Here are some options: 

• Kitchen scraps | Vegetable peels, fruit scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, crushed eggshells. 
• Yard Waste | Fallen leaves, grass clippings, and small prunings. 
• Cardboard and Paper | Shredded newspaper, cardboard, and paper (tear them into small pieces and must not be glossy or coloured paper) 
• Wood Ash | Ash from untreated wood can be used sparingly in the compost pile. It helps raise the pH levels and add nutrients. 
• Seaweed | If you’re near a beach, you can collect seaweed to add to your compost. Rinse well to remove excess salt. 
• Manure | Animal manure, such as horse or cow manure, can provide valuable nutrients and help accelerate decomposition. 

It is important to remember to balance between carbon-rich (browns) and nitrogen-rich (greens) materials. Throughout winter, you may need to insulate the compost pile or use a compost bin to retain heat and prevent excessive moisture loss. Turning the pile less frequently can also help retain heat. 

Using in your garden 

That’s right, you can use your decomposed compost in your garden! Compost can act as a natural fertiliser, enriching the soil and adding necessary nutrients. Improving soil structure, and increasing water retention, making sure you grow healthy and yummy fruits and vegetables. 

To accelerate your garden’s potential, include our Mobilizer product in your compost. Designed to mobilise and naturally chelate and uptake elements within the soil. Mobilizer mobilises Calcium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Magnesium and trace elements to enhance overall soil and plant health. 

Mobilizer is one of Roots, Shoots & Fruit’s most popular home garden products due to its superior soil and plant benefits. When added to compost, it becomes a game changer! By providing overarching benefits such as supporting plant electrolytes, boosting overall health and mineral balance and preventing the loss of soil nutrients and trace elements. 

Shop Mobilizer here. 

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