Everyone eats, and almost everyone (at least in the United States) produces a lot of food waste. When most folks clean off their plates, they are used to dumping the food scraps in the trash with very little thought. What can you do with leftover, partially chewed food, anyway?
It turns out that there are a number of things you can do with food scraps, especially when it comes to the garden. Keep reading to learn why you might never want to throw out your food scraps again.
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1. Food scraps decompose.
Food scraps such as fruit cores, banana peels, citrus peels, paper towels and even tea bags decompose once buried in the soil. The time of decomposition usually ranges between one month to a year.
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2. Food scraps add nutrients to the soil.
Adding food scraps to soil helps restore organic matter as it provides the necessary means for microorganisms in the soil to thrive. This makes the soil healthier for plants.
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3. Reduce waste and save money.
You can help the environment by reducing normal kitchen waste. Plus, you may save money on garbage removal costs.
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4. Reduce bad odors.
Don't leave the food scraps inside your home and cause a stink. With the right composting recipe, the compost itself won't have foul smells, either.
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5. It's better for dogs, too.
Feeding your dog food scraps can lead to a more unhealthy, unbalanced diet. (Just make sure you are not burying meat or milk.)
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6. Food scraps help with water retention.
Food scraps in the soil provide more moisture, which helps the entire garden.
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7. Easy and fast composting.
Burying food scraps is a lazy person's way of helping the environment. Simply dig a hole (around 10 to 12 inches deep), dump food scraps in and replace soil. That's it!
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8. Makes neighboring plants stronger (and better-tasting).
Your neighboring plants will be happy. "Research shows that compost enhances the ability of tomatoes and other vegetables to stand up to common diseases and may improve their flavor and nutrition," states Bonnie Plants. Plus, your family will be happier that you are feeding them a more tasty, healthier meal.
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9. Help keep pests at bay.
Food scraps act as a natural method of pest control. For example, garlic helps deter worms, ants and other unwanted critters. Sometimes, humans too!
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10. It's free.
Burying food scraps costs you nothing. No need to buy any expensive fertilizer.
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Have you ever buried food scraps? If you know someone who loves to garden, make sure to share these tips with them on Facebook.