Interesting Facts You May Not Know About Composting

Composting is more than just tossing scraps into a pile. It’s a simple, rewarding way to reduce waste and enrich your garden, but there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. These seven surprising facts will give you a deeper understanding of how composting works and why it matters, no matter the size of your space or experience level.

1. Compost can heat up to 160°F and kill weed seeds and pathogens

When composting conditions are ideal, the pile can heat up to temperatures between 130 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat level is not only a sign that microbes are actively breaking down material, but it also has real benefits. At these temperatures, many weed seeds and harmful pathogens are destroyed, making your finished compost cleaner and safer to use in the garden.

To achieve these temperatures, your compost pile should be at least 3 feet wide and tall, with a balanced mix of green and brown materials. Turning the pile regularly and maintaining proper moisture will also help it heat up. While not every home compost system reaches these levels, it’s useful to understand the potential of a well-managed pile.

2. Not all compostable items break down equally

Just because something is labeled compostable doesn’t mean it will break down quickly or easily in a home compost pile. Items like avocado pits, corn cobs, and thick branches can take months or even years to decompose fully. Similarly, some certified compostable packaging requires the heat of an industrial facility to break down properly.

In a backyard setup, it’s best to chop or shred tough materials to help them break down faster. When dealing with compostable packaging, check whether it is labeled as home-compostable or commercially compostable. Knowing what your system can realistically handle helps avoid frustration and keeps your compost pile balanced.

3. Worms are optional but they speed things up

You don’t need worms to compost successfully, but they can definitely help. Vermicomposting uses special composting worms, such as red wigglers, to process food scraps faster and produce a highly nutritious byproduct called worm castings. These castings are especially rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes.

Worm bins are a great option for indoor or small-space composting and can be used year-round in many parts of the country. They’re also odor-free when managed properly. While not essential, adding worms is a fun and effective way to improve your composting setup.

4. Compost improves soil structure more than synthetic fertilizers

Compost doesn’t just feed your plants, it improves the soil itself. It adds organic matter that increases aeration, water retention, and overall soil health. This makes it especially helpful for heavy clay or sandy soils that struggle with structure and drainage.

Unlike synthetic fertilizers, compost supports a wide range of beneficial microbes that help make nutrients more available to plants. It also stabilizes pH levels and supports long-term soil fertility. While synthetic fertilizers offer a quick boost, compost builds the foundation for a healthier garden over time.

5. Composting can reduce your household waste by up to 30 percent

According to the EPA, food scraps and yard waste make up more than 30 percent of what Americans throw away. Composting diverts this material from landfills, where it would otherwise generate methane a potent greenhouse gas. Instead, those scraps can become a valuable resource for your garden.

Even small households can make a big impact by composting vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and garden trimmings. Over time, you’ll notice your trash bin filling up more slowly. Composting not only reduces waste but also helps close the loop by returning nutrients to the earth.

6. You don’t need a backyard to compost

Composting isn’t limited to those with big yards or garden beds. Urban and apartment dwellers have plenty of options, from worm bins to bokashi systems to countertop composters. These methods take up very little space and are designed to work indoors or in small outdoor areas like balconies.

Many cities now offer community compost programs or curbside pickup for food waste. You can also look for local farms or garden centers that accept drop-off compostables. With so many options, nearly anyone can start composting regardless of where they live.

7. Finished compost doesn’t smell bad it smells earthy

A properly managed compost pile should not have a foul odor. In fact, finished compost smells like rich, damp earth. If your pile smells rotten or sour, it usually means something is off with the balance of greens and browns or there’s too much moisture.

To correct odors, turn the pile to increase airflow and add more dry materials like shredded leaves or paper. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily foods which can attract pests and create unpleasant smells. With a little attention, your compost can stay odor-free and neighbor-friendly.

Conclusion

Composting is full of benefits and even a few unexpected details. Whether you’re managing a backyard pile or using a small indoor system, understanding how compost works can help you get better results and reduce waste at the same time. Start small, stay curious, and let your scraps do something good.