Preview Only

Food WebsActivity for Kids

Compost DIY

Duration: 30-60 min
Difficulty: Easy
Cost: $0 to $5

Use microbial decomposition to turn food waste into fertilizer!

Visit The Full Lesson Download Instructions as PDF

Material List

1Pile of twigs
1Pile of dry leaves
1Bucket of food waste (such as egg shells, coffee grounds, tea bags, apple cores, orange and banana peels)
1Pair of non-latex gloves
1Large bowl for mixing
1Large plant pot or other container with holes on the bottom
1Watering can with water
Note:Do not use meat as part of the food waste (it attracts flies, smells & can have bad microbes).

Instructions

1Put on your gloves.
2Mix all your food waste together in a large bowl.
3Add a layer of dry twigs at the bottom of the large flower pot.
4Then add a layer of food waste on top of the twigs.
5Next, add a layer of dry leaves.
6Using the watering can, sprinkle water over the top until damp.
7Leave your compost to decompose naturally for 3-6 months.
8The process is slow but eventually you will have a nutrient-rich material for gardening.

Create A Free Account To Unlock All Content!

Get Full Access

Become A Member To Get Full Access!

Plans & Pricing

How It Works

Decomposition is nature’s way of recycling. Dead plants and animals are broken down into basic nutrients that become part of the Earth. Decomposition happens when decomposers - such as worms, bacteria, and fungi - eat and digest plant and animal remains. Without decomposition, dead organisms would just pile up!