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Composting in Dallas
It may be getting cooler in Dallas, but that does not mean homeowners should stop caring for their lawns. One method of lawn care that helps prevent storm water pollution, saves landfill space, and conserves water is composting.
Compost is a mixture of decaying organic matter (dead leaves, grass clippings, coffee grounds, fruit/vegetable scraps) that can be used to help fertilize soil. By composting grass clippings and leaves, Dallasites can prevent these materials from being washed into storm drain inlets with the storm water runoff.
Dallas residents Ed and Claudia Meyer have been composting for over 12 years, “We started composting because we needed dirt for gardening and to level our yard,” said Mr. Meyer. “Compost is a source of good rich dirt for our garden. Dallas has clay-like soil. You need some type of composted matter to give the soil added nutrition,” said Mrs. Meyer.
Items that the Meyers have composted include leaves, twigs, fruit, vegetables, shredded paper, cardboard, and egg shells. They avoid composting any meat or dairy products because they contain grease. They also do not recommend composting cereal boxes and coffee filters, as the density of these materials seems to prolong the breakdown process.
When asked if their compost bin ever smells, Mrs. Meyer answered, “No, never.” She explained that if there is a smell, the mixture is off balance or something was added to the compost that should not have been, like grease, meat, or dairy.
The Meyers say they have received many benefits from composting such as having a source of good rich dirt for gardening, reducing what they send to the landfill, and saving money by not having to buy fertilizers and other nutrient enhancers. Mr. Meyer went on to say that their compost bins have become a science lab for their granddaughter, helping her to learn more about the nature.
Composting is year-long process for the Meyers. They are constantly adding to their bins, because even during the winter months, the breakdown process is still taking place. Mrs. Meyer concluded, “I’d like to see more people compost; because if you aren’t, you are throwing away good stuff for your soil. It is so easy to do. There is just not that much to it.”
To lean more about composting visit the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality’s website.
