At The Organic Harvest, we’re proud to be a family of growers on Florida’s Nature Coast, dedicated to empowering you to take control of your food supply through organic gardening. For us, composting isn’t just a chore—it’s a way of life, a daily ritual that connects us to the earth and to each other. We see our compost pile as the beating heart of our garden, transforming everyday scraps into the rich, living soil that nourishes our plants and supports our journey toward food independence and sustainable living.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of composting—what to include, what to avoid, and why it all matters. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced gardener looking to refine your routine, we’re here to share what we’ve learned from generations of hands-on experience. Let’s dig in together and discover how composting can transform your garden—and your life.
Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving garden, and composting is the simplest, most natural way to build it. When you compost, you’re not just recycling kitchen scraps and yard waste—you’re creating a vibrant ecosystem teeming with beneficial microbes, earthworms, and fungi. These tiny helpers break down organic matter, releasing nutrients that feed your plants and improve soil structure.
At The Organic Harvest, we’ve seen firsthand how composting can transform even the most challenging soils. Gardens that once struggled with clay, sand, or poor fertility become lush, productive spaces when fed with homemade compost. Composting also reduces waste, keeping organic materials out of landfills and reducing your environmental footprint. It’s a small step with big rewards—for your garden, your family, and the planet.
Composting is a bit like baking a cake—you need the right ingredients in the right proportions. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
A good rule of thumb is to mix 2 to 3 parts browns to 1 part greens by volume. This balance keeps your compost healthy, efficient, and odor-free.
These materials break down into rich, dark compost that’s perfect for feeding your garden and improving soil structure.
By avoiding these materials, you’ll keep your compost pile healthy, odor-free, and safe for your garden.
Maria’s Compost Success:
“I started composting last year and was amazed at how quickly my garden improved. My tomatoes are bigger, my herbs are more fragrant, and I hardly ever need to water. Plus, I love knowing I’m doing something good for the planet.”
Tom’s Compost Experiment:
“At first, I was worried about smells and pests, but once I learned what to include and what to avoid, my compost pile became the heart of my garden. Now, my soil is richer and my plants are healthier than ever.”
Lena’s Urban Compost:
“Living in the city, I didn’t think I could compost, but a small bin on my balcony changed everything. I feel more connected to my food and my community, and my plants are thriving.”
Every time you add the right materials to your compost pile, you’re investing in the long-term health of your garden and the planet. Healthy compost supports biodiversity, conserves water, and helps you grow more food with fewer inputs. At The Organic Harvest, we believe that composting is the ultimate form of self-reliance and sustainable living. It’s a small act with a big impact—one that connects you to the earth, to your food, and to a growing community of like-minded gardeners.
As a family-owned, USDA Certified Organic operation, we’re committed to helping you succeed in your organic growing journey. We’re here to share our knowledge, offer practical tips, and support you every step of the way—from first sprout to final harvest.
From our farm to your garden, we invite you to join our growing community and take control of your food supply, one handful of compost at a time.
