Get the right balance of brown and green composting materials in your bin with our expert guide.
Herb gardens generate substantial organic waste. Rather than tossing trimmings and spoiled produce into the trash, savvy gardeners convert herb garden scraps into usable compost. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of reconditioning herb waste into a valuable soil amendment using home composting techniques.
Not all herb garden waste works equally when composting. Focus on herb scraps containing lots of nitrogen and moisture. Some prime examples include:
Soft Herb Scraps
Semi-Woody Herb Waste
Kitchen veggie/fruit cuttings provide supplemental nitrogen too.
Find a spot facilitating uncomplicated transport of herb waste to your composter. Some gardeners devote a corner of ornamental beds for compiling scraps. Others position lidded compost bins nearby potted herbs.
Prioritize convenience and discretion over curb appeal when siting - functionality trumps aesthetics for efficient harvesting of quality compost.
Proper processing significantly accelerates decay. Follow these key steps when adding herb garden waste:
1. Chop/Shred: Mince or shred twiggy stalks, thicker branches and lignified stems
2. Mix Greens & Browns: Blend nitrogenous green matter with high carbon browns
3. Mind Moisture: Prevent sogginess - excess moisture promotes anaerobic rotting
4. Turn Periodically: Routine aeration introduces needed oxygen, deterring stench
With conscientious preparation and monitoring, herb waste breaks down promptly into usable compost.
Finished compost made using herb garden waste offers adaptable soil enhancement across numerous garden usages:
Potting Mix Component - Amend seed starter and potting media
Ornamental Topper - Mulch flower beds without fear of burning
Edibles Booster - Side dress vegetables, fruits and herbs
Soil Conditioner - Blend into native soil when planting
Acidifier - Lower pH in substrates suited for azaleas, blueberries, etc.
Herb garden compost empowers gardeners to "close the loop" via responsible waste recycling. Put your herb scraps to work nurturing new growth!