Did you know that up to 25% of our rubbish can be composted? By composting as much of your rubbish as possible you can help the environment, improve the quality of soil in your garden if you have one and save space in your black bin too.
What to put in your compost bin
As a general rule, all fruit and vegetable peelings, grass cuttings and garden rubbish can be put in your compost bin.
What to avoid in your compost bin
Avoid meat, fish, bread, cooked food, diseased plant matter and droppings from meat-eating animals like dogs and cats.
Process
Composting is a natural process carried out by millions of tiny creatures which break down the materials, turning them in to a soil-like substance. In good conditions and with the right mix of materials, compost could be produced within three to six months. The process requires heat, so is slower in the winter months.
How to use your compost bin
You can dig the compost into flower beds and borders or spread it over the soil as a mulch. You can also use it on allotments. Compost is an excellent alternative to peat-based products that you buy from garden centres.