Composting is considered to be one of the main aspects of gardening. It helps to improve soil structure and promotes organic plant growth as well.
For senior citizens, Gardening can be a real motivator and a way towards a more peaceful, calm and healthy life. Planting a garden and seeing it grow is rewarding and pleasing. Gardening has many other benefits for our senior citizens, it provides fresh air and helps connect with the environment. Along with that gardening also provides so many health benefits, it helps relieve stress, increases serotonin levels, boosts the immune system, Improves endurance and strength etc.
Seniors can also opt for composting at home to take better care of their garden.
What is Composting?
Composting is a process where organic material like food waste, plant material, etc. is naturally broken down by fungus and bacteria to form compost.
In other words, composting is the process of recycling organic materials that are usually considered waste. The resultant material, known as compost, acts as a natural source of essential nutrients for the soil.
Good items for composting include fruit & vegetable waste, leaves, grass cuttings, non-plastic tea bags, etc. Since composting is an important concept, those who wish to take up gardening as a regular activity must know about…
The Important Benefits of Composting
1. Can Save Money
Composting it is a natural and organic process. It does not require any kind of chemicals, fertilizers or pesticides. This makes it a cost-efficient activity that can save you a lot of money.
2. Good for the Soil
It can be quite helpful for the overall health of the soil. Moreover, composting can also improve soil fertility and can offer protection from potential plant diseases as well.
3. Reduces Garden Pests
Getting rid of pests in your garden can be quite frustrating. However, proper composting can ensure minimum pests as the compost itself contains various micro-nutrients that act as pesticides.
4. Improves Soil Structure
Composting is known to add helpful microorganisms like bacteria and fungi to the soil. These microorganisms speed up the composting process, which in turn, can improve the structure of the soil and is also one of the best ways to maintain your garden.
5. Ideal Exercise
While composting can offer various benefits for the soil, it can also help you to stay fit & healthy. It is an ideal physical activity that can keep you active and offers good exercise for the mind & body.
6. Recycles Home Waste
Almost 30% of home waste can be recycled through composting. This includes leftover food and other kitchen waste. Recycling this waste will provide good compost for the soil and will also reduce the overall pollution of your surroundings.
Speaking of which…
7. Good for the Environment
Most of our home waste is sent to garbage landfills where they rot and release methane & carbon dioxide into the air. Composting organic waste can help in reducing the overall impact on the environment.
8. Conserves Water
One of the most important benefits of composting is that it allows the soil to retain water. This provides a steady source of moisture and nutrients to the plants in your garden and also reduces the need for constant watering of plants.
9. Cost-Effective
According to surveys, each Indian home throws away almost 50kg of food every year. Composting can give us a clear idea about how much food is thrown out and will allow us to plan our purchase of grocery items in a much better way.
10. Promotes Social Interaction
Composting at home can be a fun activity when you have people to help & guide you. Since many of us have a garden at home, you can discuss the entire process and benefits of composting with these individuals.
