A Guide for Urban Gardeners to Composting in Small Spaces

Composting in a small space might seem challenging, but with the right approach, even apartment dwellers can turn kitchen scraps into garden gold. Here's a practical guide to get you started with small-space composting.

Choose the Right Composting Method

Small-space gardeners have several excellent options:

• Bokashi composting uses fermentation in an airtight bucket, perfect for countertops

• Worm bins (vermicomposting) work well indoors and process scraps quickly

• Compact tumbling composters fit on balconies and prevent pest issues

Trench composting directly in containers for those with small patios

What to Compost in Small Spaces

Be selective about what goes in your small composter:

• Green materials: Fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, fresh plant trimmings

• Brown materials: Dry leaves, shredded paper, cardboard, small wood chips

Avoid: Meat, dairy, oils, pet waste, diseased plants (these can cause odors and attract pests)

Managing Odours and Pests

These are crucial considerations for indoor or balcony composting:

• Maintain proper moisture (damp like a wrung-out sponge)

• Keep a good green-to-brown ratio (roughly 1:3)

• Turn or aerate your compost regularly

• Add a thin layer of browns on top to create a natural filter

Harvesting and Using Your Compost

Small-space compost can be incredibly valuable:

• Mix finished compost into potting soil for containers (about 25% compost)

• Use as a thin top dressing for houseplants

• Make compost tea by steeping compost in water for a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Wet, slimy compost: Add more browns and aerate

• Dry, slow-decomposing pile: Add water and more greens

• Fruit flies: Cover fresh scraps with browns or partially bury new additions

Even the smallest composting setup can process a surprising amount of kitchen waste while providing nutrients for your garden. Start small, experiment with different methods, and enjoy watching your food scraps transform into rich, fertile compost for your plants.