If you have just begun composting and you’re looking at various kinds of things in your household that you could compose then you’ve come to the right place today we will discuss all about paper and can it be composted. Except for glossy and colored paper, that might have certain toxic metals, news print along with other papers are extremely safe to utilize in the compost or as mulch. Recently I read about a study that stated paper contains few toxic materials in comparison to grass or straw! Can you believe that!
The only concern that I see with paper is, if too much paper is added to the heap it could result in unfavorable nitrogen to carbon ratio. This is because paper has high levels of carbon, this is also a reason for it to burn. However, if added in the right proportion it will not hamper the pile. The acceptable ratio is 1 nitrogen to 25 carbons. If you add excessive carbon, it will reduce the speed of the process. Suppose if you find yourself in such a situation you must add materials that are high in nitrogen that include manual, alfalfa, and grass. I’m sure by now you have already experienced those materials if well chopped and regularly turned will always result in happy and healthy compost.
Paper when shredded can be extremely useful to the compost as well as your plants let’s take a quick look at how it could benefit you;
Can composing paper Help the soil to retain moisture
Water retention and moisture absorption are increased as soon as you add shredded paper to the compost. The paper has natural properties that allow it to direct moisture from organic materials that are decomposing. This is extremely beneficial because it aids the materials to break down quicker, reducing odor as well as leakage problems. When utilized with soil shredded paper that is composted will benefit various plants by promoting retention of moisture.
Can you compose paper to be a Carbon source
If you are utilizing credit/ bank statements and news print shredded paper it is a great carbon source. Carbon is a vital component while composting. Healthy compost always thrives on a balanced ratio of nitrogen and carbon. You can say that paper is entirely carbon, therefore, allowing a great balance in the compost that has extra nitrogenous materials
Can composing paper Boost the volume of the soil
When you add shredded paper to the composting process it tends to increase the volume of the soil. At the end of the process, you will have increased finished compost to use especially if you have added shredded paper in the process of composting.
Is composed paper Loved by worms
Let me tell you that worms simply thrive in compost that has shredded paper. So, if you ever plan to utilize the worming composting you will see that the worms in it well seek shelter and actively eat the paper.
Paper varieties to safely compost
- Scrap paper
- Work paper/ used school papers
- Notebook papers
- News print
- Receipts
- Office paper (printed or plain)
- Envelopes
- Non-glossy paper
- Bills
You could also keep away from utilizing glossy, waxy, fluorescent, or brightly colored paper in order to avoid contaminant risks. I finally recommend that you follow these instructions that we have discussed and you’re good to go. Thanks for reading!