How To Make Drunken Compost: A Guide to Boosting Your Garden's Nutrient Levels

Composting is an essential part of gardening. It helps break down organic materials and transforms them into nutrient-rich fertilizer for your plants. However, some gardeners are hesitant to start composting because it can be a smelly and messy process. That's where drunken compost comes in – not only is it easy to make, but it also adds a fun twist to the traditional composting method.

What is Drunken Compost?

Drunken compost, also known as anaerobic compost, is a type of compost that is made by fermenting organic materials in a sealed container. The term "drunken" refers to the fact that the fermentation process produces alcohol, which gives the compost a slightly sweet smell. This method of composting is ideal for those who live in urban areas or have limited space, as it doesn't require a lot of room and doesn't produce a strong odor.

What You'll Need

Organic materials for compost

To make drunken compost, you'll need:

• A sealable container (a bucket with a tight-fitting lid works well)
• Organic materials (fruits, vegetables, coffee grounds, eggshells, etc.)
• Water

How to Make Drunken Compost

Mixing compost

Follow these simple steps to make your own drunken compost:

1. Start by collecting organic materials. You can use fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and other food waste. Avoid using meat, dairy, and oily foods, as they can attract pests and create unpleasant odors.
2. Chop the organic materials into small pieces to speed up the decomposition process.
3. Add the chopped organic materials to the sealable container, filling it about three-quarters full. You can layer the materials if you'd like.
4. Add water to the container until the organic materials are moist but not soaking wet. Use a stick or spoon to mix the contents of the container.
5. Seal the container tightly and store it in a warm, dark place. A closet, pantry, or garage works well.
6. Check on the compost every few days and give it a good mix. If it looks dry, add more water. The compost should be ready in about 2-3 weeks.
7. Once the compost is ready, use it to fertilize your plants. You can mix it into the soil or sprinkle it on top as a mulch.

Tips for Making Drunken Compost

Anaerobic compost

Here are some tips to help you make the best drunken compost:

• Use a container with a tight-fitting lid to keep out air and pests.
• If the compost smells bad or slimy, it may be too wet. Add more dry materials (like leaves or shredded paper) to balance it out.
• Don't mix in too many high-nitrogen materials (like fresh grass clippings or manure) as they can cause the compost to heat up too much and kill beneficial microorganisms.
• If you don't have enough organic materials, you can buy them from a local garden center or farmer's market.
• If you want to speed up the fermentation process, you can add a small amount of yeast or sugar to the mixture. However, this isn't necessary and may attract flies.

Drunken compost is a simple, inexpensive, and effective way to boost the nutrient levels in your garden soil. With just a few organic materials and a sealable container, you can create a nutrient-rich fertilizer that will help your plants thrive. Plus, the fermentation process gives off a sweet aroma that will make your gardening experience even more enjoyable!

: composting, organic materials, fermentation, sealable container, fertilizer