Creating Fertilizer from Kitchen Waste: A Practical Guide

Is turning kitchen scraps into compost or fertilizer something you've considered but perhaps didn't know how to start? In this article, we'll explore easy and effective ways to transform your food waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden. Whether you have a small apartment or a spacious backyard, these methods can help you create a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to gardening and agriculture.

Introduction to Kitchen Waste as Fertilizer

For many decades, my partner has been utilizing kitchen waste to create fertilizer. A variety of vegetable scraps and grains, including bread, work well. However, it's important to avoid meat products and bones, as they can attract unwanted pests.

Using a Composting Container

While a commercially available composting container is ideal, there are alternative options. A plastic trash bin with a tight lid can be used, or, if you have a large backyard with the permission of neighbors, you can pile the waste in a corner of your yard. However, this method is generally not recommended due to the risk of attracting wildlife.

Step-by-Step Technique: Bokashi Composting

A particularly effective method is bokashi composting, developed in Japan in the 19th century. This process involves using a combination of uncooked, non-meat kitchen scraps and adding lactic acid bacillus, which is similar to the bacteria used in fermenting cheese, yogurt, and sauerkraut.

Collection and Preparation

Start by keeping a stainless steel covered bucket in your kitchen to collect your scraps. The contents can include vegetable peels, crushed eggshells, and moldy bread. Once the bucket is full, transfer the contents to a five-gallon plastic bucket with a tight lid.

Fermentation and Storage

Lay the scraps with a layer of sawdust that has been inoculated with lactic acid bacillus. Let this sit and ferment for at least two weeks. If storage space is limited, this can be done outside or in a garage during winter months, although it may produce a strong odor. Repeat this process when the five-gallon bucket is full.

Final Steps: Composting with Topsoil

The fermented scraps are then transferred to a 50-gallon plastic composter in a corner of your garden. Periodically add a shovel of topsoil and turn the contents. After an undetermined period, usually at least once or twice a year, empty the composter onto your garden beds and mix the compost into the soil.

Tips and Considerations

Only use uncooked and non-meat kitchen waste to avoid attracting pests. Regular turning and the use of topsoil can significantly aid in the composting process. Additionally, choose an appropriate container based on your space and preferences.

Start a compost bin, put in table scraps such as eggshells, coffee grounds, and vegetable peels along with grass clippings, and turn the contents at least once a week. This simple technique works wonders for your garden, providing essential nutrients and improving soil health.