What NOT to Compost
There are several misconceptions about what can or can not be added to your compost. We are here to set the record straight and let you know what you should NOT be adding to your compost. The general rule is simple: only include materials that naturally decompose, like garden waste and fruit or vegetable kitchen scraps. Here are some things to avoid:
Meat, Dairy Products, Oil, and Cooked Food: Certain food items break down too slowly and can compromise your compost. Meat and dairy products should be avoided as they attract pests and produce unpleasant odours as they decompose. Cooked or greasy food will also smell bad and attract pests, while also slowing down the composting process.
Non Biodegradable Materials: An easily missed item that can end up in your compost will be the stickers from fruit. It is important to avoid plastics or anything that wont decompose naturally within a few months. This will include any metal, fabrics, or paper that has the shiny layer (magazines, cardboard with print). Some materials might break down quickly, but you can’t be sure they wont be leaking toxic chemicals into the soil contaminating your garden produce. Treated wood sawdust or wood chips can also contain harmful chemicals for plants and soil.
Highly Acidic Vegetation: You want to make sure you aren't adding too much produce that will raise the acidity of the compost as most plants do not do well in these conditions. Add citrus and onions in moderation. Pine needles and cedar should also be added in moderation because excessive amounts will throw off the pH balance.
Weeds With Seeds: Adding your garden waste to the compost is a great idea as long as it doesn't contain seeds. Seeds might not decompose in your compost and you will be left accidentally spreading weeds to all of your garden beds.
Diseased Plants: Make sure to bag up any garden waste that you suspect might be diseased. Adding diseased materials to your compost almost guarantees the return or spread of the disease to other plants. Please adhere to local regulations regarding the disposal of diseased plants.
Pet Waste: Never add your cats or dogs waste to your compost. It contains pathogens and parasites that will be harmful to you and your compost.
