If you don’t have the space for an outdoor compost pile, but still want to put your compost to good use by enriching your soil for some great gardening benefits, this might be the solution for you. Yes, there are products like compost shredders that allow consumers to place their food waste inside, which creates usable compost in 12 hours. However, if you don’t want to spend money replicating a process that should be free, the Dig and Drop composting method is the perfect solution. It is as easy as it sounds:
- Dig a hole that is approximately 10-14 inches deep and wide enough to fit your compost.
- Place the food scraps, coffee grounds, and other organic matter into the hole.
- Fill the hole back with soil, pat it flat, and just like that you’re done!
The great thing about the Dig and Drop method is, that once you bury your compost, you never have to worry about it again! That’s because the food waste will decompose into the soil, enriching the surrounding environment naturally, without human intervention. It also takes up much less space than a traditional compost pile and doesn’t attract flies or animals. However, keep in mind where you are burying your compost. Don’t aimlessly bury your compost in random places. Capitalize on the amazing nutrients by burying your compost in an area that would benefit from soil enrichment, like a garden or an area of grass that never seems to grow.
You might be worried about furry visitors being attracted by the scent of food scraps. Just be careful not to bury meat or dairy products, as those are what attract rodents and local pets (and we all know we don’t need our dogs digging more holes in the yard). Raw food waste like vegetables doesn’t attract animals to the same degree as meat and dairy. If you dig your hole deep enough most of the scent will be covered up. A hole that is 10-14 inches deep, with enough room for a couple of inches of soil on top, should sufficiently prevent food smells from enticing the local creatures.
A couple of tips:
Be sure to start with small amounts of compost. Don’t let a large pile of food waste build-up and then try to bury it all at once! Smaller amounts of food waste will decompose faster and healthier. Also, if you have multiple small holes, more of your garden will have access to this nutritious compost you’ll be cultivating. Lastly, always be aware of your plant roots while digging. You don’t want to accidentally damage the roots whilst enthusiastically digging your compost hole. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, and utilize the Dig + Drop method!
