Composting becomes more and more popular all the time — and for good reason. It’s healthy for the earth and your garden. And it’s a fun conversation starter. If you’re on the fence about composting, here’s what you need to know before investing any time or money.

What Is Composting

Composting is all about recycling organic waste through natural decomposition. Instead of tossing things like dead flowers and vegetable scraps in the trash, you let them break down into an ultra-nutrient-rich substance called compost. You can buy compost from most landscape and garden centers, but it’s much less expensive and more rewarding to make your own. Plus, by keeping a pile at home, you’ll always have it on hand when you need it.

Composting Bins and Tools

There are many ways to compost. Your chosen style will dictate which tools you need. Some people use a compost bin, some prefer a simple pile and others go for a compost barrel tumbler. You can even keep a small compost bin inside if you lack yard space for a full-sized pile. If you’d rather not build a container, there are plenty of compost tools and accessories available for purchase, including this dual-chamber tumbler and this aerator. If you plan to add fruit and vegetable trimmings to your compost pile, you’ll need a rodent-resistant bin.