It’s a spooky time of the year, so treats are always in abundance! Unfortunately, this can mean a lot of food waste. From candy to apples to the weird, healthy snacks your neighbor gives you, we’re here to help you figure out what you can and can’t compost in your electric composter.
First and foremost, you CANNOT compost paper or candy wrappers. Most candy wrappers are made from plastic or plastic-coated paper, which do not break down in compost and can contaminate the final product. Additionally, some wrappers may contain chemicals or dyes that are harmful to the composting process. Regular paper, when left whole, can clump together, preventing proper aeration and decomposition.
However, shredded paper is acceptable for composting because it provides a larger surface area for microorganisms to break it down more quickly. Shredded paper also helps balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio in your compost, promoting a healthy compost environment.
Here’s what spooky treats you CAN compost:
- Pumpkin guts
- Apple cores
- Rotting Jack O’ Lanterns
- Fall leaves
- Corn cobs and husks
- Baked goods
- Moldy bread
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells and small bones (fish or bird)
- Old and unwanted candy (unwrapped)
- Peeps, candy corn, and chocolates
- Old carved veggie decor
- Green tea bags
- Cauldron stew leftovers
Check out what else you can compost here.
Tips for Composting
To ensure a successful composting experience, keep these tips in mind:
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Balance Your Materials: Remember to mix “greens” (like pumpkin guts and apple cores) with “browns” (such as fall leaves and shredded paper) to create a healthy compost environment.
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Monitor Moisture Levels: Your compost should be moist but not soggy. If it feels too wet, add more browns to balance it out.
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Stir Regularly: Aeration is key! Stir your compost regularly to promote decomposition and prevent unpleasant smells.
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Use Compost Starters: Consider adding a compost starter to speed up the process and reduce odors, especially during the busy Halloween season.
For more detailed tips on composting without bugs or smells, check out this post: How to Compost in an Apartment Without Bugs or Smells.
Got more questions about your composter? Check out the FAQs here.
Make composting fun this spooky season and teach your kids how to eliminate food waste in a way that helps the planet. You can use your Halloween compost on indoor or outdoor plants, the garden, lawn or donate to a local giving garden.
