Composting corn husks and cobs is a process that is sustainable and allows you to turn your leftover food into nutrient-rich garden soil. The other parts from the corn plant that is usually discarded can also be utilized in the pile. These also include corn silks, leaves, and stocks. If you’re looking at composting corn husks as well as the other parts of the corn plant, then this article is meant for you. Keep reading to learn various sustainable ways for you to recycle corn husks
Corn husks composting
When the corn is developing, it has an outer layer protecting it during this process. This outer layer is later peeled to utilize corn kernels. Now instead of dumping the outer layer into the bin, you can add it to the compost pile.
If you’re planning to compost corn husks, I recommend you utilize green husks. This husk is removed prior to eating the fresh corn. You can also utilize brown husks that are left around the corn. This part is usually utilized to feed livestock or harvest seed.
Composting corn cobs
If you have a question of whether or not you can use corncobs for the compost then, let me tell you, yes you can. Composting corncobs will take much longer in comparison to corn husks. The corncob will serve as an added purpose prior to decomposing into rich compost. Since the corn cob remains intact for a while it creates air pockets within the compost pile.
The air pockets are very helpful to increase the process of decomposition, giving you rich compost quicker. When the pile has oxygen, it takes longer for the compost to be ready.
Composting corn plant
Enclosed or open
If you’re planning to compost corncobs along with various corn plant along with numerous organic matters, we recommend utilizing a pile that is open. If you like and you have the time on your hands, you can also construct a frame that will keep all the organic matter enclosed. You can make this frame by simply utilizing wooden pallets, concrete blocks, and wire mesh. Leave the lower part of the bin open allowing it to drain well.
Material sizes
There is one rule to composting and that is, if the organic materials are large, it would take longer. Therefore, smaller the better. If you planning to add corncob to your pile, remember that they will decompose very quickly, if they are cut into small pieces. If you planning to compost corn husks, remember to shred them, this can be done by running them over with the mower. By doing so, they will quickly break down.
Ratio recipe
The compost pile needs to have a well-balanced ratio of greens to brown, that is a 1:4 ratio accordingly. When you stick to this ratio the compost pile will not get soggy. The moment the pile gets soggy, it will begin to release a foul odor. The greens add a lot of moisture to the file therefore you must make sure to balance it out with sufficient browns. Do not add too many browns or else it could dry up the pile. The main focus is the pile should always be moist, not wet and not dry.
Well, that’s all for this article folks, I do hope that these insights give you more clarity on composting corn husks. Happy composting!