A Simple Compost Solution for Small Gardens
When it comes to reducing food waste and creating nutrient-rich soil, some gardeners may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of implementing an extensive composting system. For those without a designated spot for a bin or heap, trench composting offers a low-effort solution.
This ancient method involves digging a shallow trench near where you plan to grow your crops next year and adding organic matter such as fruit and vegetable waste, plant material, grass clippings, and leaves. The resulting mixture will slowly decompose over time, enriching the soil and improving its structure.
Unlike traditional composting methods, trench composting doesn't require precise ratios of green (nitrogen-rich) to brown (carbon-rich) materials, making it a more forgiving approach for those new to composting. It also eliminates the need to worry about maintaining optimal moisture levels or temperatures.
While some gardeners might find the idea of digging a trench at odds with their no-dig growing philosophy, others see it as an opportunity to add a layer of compostable material before filling raised beds β without any excavation required.
For those short on space, trench composting offers a simple and effective way to reduce food waste and create nutrient-rich soil for future gardening endeavors.
When it comes to reducing food waste and creating nutrient-rich soil, some gardeners may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of implementing an extensive composting system. For those without a designated spot for a bin or heap, trench composting offers a low-effort solution.
This ancient method involves digging a shallow trench near where you plan to grow your crops next year and adding organic matter such as fruit and vegetable waste, plant material, grass clippings, and leaves. The resulting mixture will slowly decompose over time, enriching the soil and improving its structure.
Unlike traditional composting methods, trench composting doesn't require precise ratios of green (nitrogen-rich) to brown (carbon-rich) materials, making it a more forgiving approach for those new to composting. It also eliminates the need to worry about maintaining optimal moisture levels or temperatures.
While some gardeners might find the idea of digging a trench at odds with their no-dig growing philosophy, others see it as an opportunity to add a layer of compostable material before filling raised beds β without any excavation required.
For those short on space, trench composting offers a simple and effective way to reduce food waste and create nutrient-rich soil for future gardening endeavors.