Composting is a fantastic way to reduce waste and enrich the soil at the same time. Most of us know about the usual suspects like fruit peels and vegetable scraps, but there are plenty of other items just waiting to be transformed into nutrient-rich compost. Here are 11 unexpected items you should be composting that can make your garden thrive.
I’ve discovered that looking beyond the typical kitchen scraps can really lighten my trash load and provide my plants with extra nourishment.
1. Pet hair
Pet hair is an excellent addition to my compost pile. It’s often overlooked, but it can break down just like other organic materials. Whenever I brush my dog, I collect the loose fur instead of tossing it. It’s a simple way to reduce waste and enrich my compost.
Pet hair adds nitrogen, which is great for balancing out carbon-rich materials like dried leaves. Plus, it decomposes faster than you might think, making it a straightforward choice for composting.
2. Seaweed
Seaweed is a fantastic addition to my compost bin. Being a natural organic material, it breaks down easily and enriches the compost. When I collect seaweed, I make sure to rinse it to remove excess salt. This is important because too much salt can harm plants later on.
Seaweed adds valuable nutrients like potassium and nitrogen to my compost pile. It’s a great way to recycle something that I might otherwise leave behind after a beach visit. Next time you’re by the ocean, consider grabbing some seaweed and giving it a new life in your garden!
3. Used tea bags
I used to toss my used tea bags without a second thought. It turns out they can actually enrich my compost. Most tea bags are made from organic materials, making them a suitable addition.
One thing to keep in mind is some tea bags contain plastic. If I’m concerned about microplastics, I might want to opt for brands that use biodegradable bags.
I like to save my used bags and throw them in the compost pile. They break down and add nutrients back to the soil. Plus, it’s a simple way to reduce waste while still enjoying my tea.
4. Eggshells
Eggshells are often overlooked when it comes to composting, but they’re actually a great addition to the compost pile. Crushed eggshells break down slowly, adding valuable calcium to the mix. This nutrient is beneficial for plant growth and improves soil health.
Before tossing them in, I like to bake the shells briefly to dry them out. This makes them easier to crush and helps eliminate any unpleasant odors. Using eggshells in my compost not only reduces waste but also feeds my garden naturally. It’s a simple way to get more from my kitchen scraps.
5. Coffee grounds
I love using coffee grounds in my compost. They add a nice boost of nitrogen, which is super helpful for creating rich soil. Plus, they help retain moisture in the compost pile. It’s like giving my compost a little drink when I toss them in.
They’re also great for deterring pests. I’ve noticed fewer slugs and snails since I started sprinkling coffee grounds around my garden. Using coffee grounds is easy. I just throw in the leftovers from my morning brew, filters and all, and let nature do its thing.
6. Unprinted cardboard
I often have unprinted cardboard lying around, and it’s a great composting option. This includes items like cereal boxes and paper towel rolls. Before tossing them in the compost, I make sure to break them down into smaller pieces. This speeds up the decomposition process and helps mix them better with other materials.
I avoid using any cardboard that has glossy finishes or printed designs, as these can release harmful chemicals. Unprinted cardboard is a nice addition to my compost pile because it provides carbon, balancing out the nitrogen from food scraps.
7. Wine corks
I always found it surprising that wine corks can actually be composted. Natural corks, made from the bark of cork oak trees, break down over time and add carbon to the compost pile. Before tossing them in, I make sure they’re not the synthetic kind. Those won’t break down and can harm the compost.
I often add corks from my wine evenings, and it’s satisfying to think they contribute to my garden. Using wine corks helps recycle materials I already have, making my compost even richer!
8. Nut shells
I’ve started adding nut shells to my compost pile, and it’s been a game changer. They’re carbon-rich materials that provide important nutrients to the compost. Peanut, pistachio, and almond shells are some of the best options. Just keep in mind that they break down slowly due to their woody nature.
It may take several months for them to decompose completely. To speed things up, I usually chop them into smaller pieces before tossing them in. Not only do nut shells help with the composting process, but they also reduce waste. It feels great to find yet another use for things that would otherwise end up in the trash.
9. Tofu skin
I used to toss tofu skin without a second thought, but then I realized it’s compostable. Tofu skin, also known as yuba, is a byproduct of making tofu. It’s packed with nutrients that can enrich my compost pile.
When I add tofu skin to my compost, it breaks down and contributes nitrogen. It’s a simple way to minimize waste while boosting my compost’s health. Just chop it into smaller pieces to help it decompose faster.
Next time I cook with tofu, I’ll remember to save the skin. It’s an easy addition that benefits my garden and helps the planet. Composting tofu skin is a win-win!
10. Vacuum cleaner dust
I never thought vacuum cleaner dust could be composted. It’s surprising how much organic material collects in there. Most of it is made up of hair, skin cells, and even food crumbs. It’s essentially a mix of compostable items.
Before tossing it into the compost, I make sure that there are no synthetic fibers in the dust. Those can take ages to break down and aren’t good for plants. If my vacuum is just picking up natural debris, I feel good about adding it to my pile. It’s a simple way to recycle what would otherwise end up in the landfill.
11. Feathers
I’ve discovered that feathers, often overlooked, can be a fantastic addition to my compost pile. Whether they come from old pillows, down jackets, or even pet bedding, they bring valuable nitrogen to the mix. I love that they break down over time, enriching the soil.
Just make sure to tear them into smaller pieces first, as this helps speed up decomposition. It’s a simple way to recycle something that would otherwise end up in the trash.
*This article was created with the help of AI.