Nourishing the Earth: Transforming Food Scraps into Garden Gold

1. Fruit and Vegetable Scraps:
   Many of the scraps generated in our kitchens can be used to create compost. Fruit peels, vegetable ends, and even those wilted leafy greens can all be transformed into garden gold. Avoid adding oily or heavily seasoned scraps, which can disrupt composting.
2. Coffee Grounds:
   Before you toss those used coffee grounds into the trash, consider their potential in the garden. Coffee grounds are a great source of nitrogen, a key nutrient for plant growth. They can also help improve soil structure and water retention.
3. Eggshells:
   Eggshells are rich in calcium and essential for plants, especially tomatoes and peppers. Crushed eggshells deter certain pests and can be sprinkled around plants to provide a protective barrier.
4. Tea Leaves and Bags:
   Tea leaves and bags (make sure they're made of natural materials) can be added to your compost bin. They contribute nitrogen and other beneficial nutrients to the mix.
5. Nut Shells:
   Nutshells, like those from peanuts, almonds, and walnuts, can break down over time and add texture to the soil. They're a good carbon-rich addition to balance the nitrogen-rich materials in your compost.
6. Stale Bread and Grains:
   Bread and grains that have gone stale can find new purpose in your garden. Tear them into small pieces to aid decomposition and mix them into your compost pile.
7. Citrus Peels:
   While it's advisable not to add too many citrus peels due to their acidity, a moderate amount can provide nutrients and repel pests. Ensure you cut them into smaller pieces to speed up the decomposition process.
8. Vegetable Cooking Water:
   After boiling or steaming vegetables, let the cooking water cool before adding it to your compost. This water is enriched with vitamins and minerals that can benefit your garden soil.
9. Avocado Pits:
   Avocado pits take longer to break down but can contribute valuable nutrients to your compost. Just break them into smaller pieces to speed up the decomposition.
10. Herb Stems:
    Don't discard those herb stems after plucking the leaves! Herb stems, like those from parsley, cilantro, and basil, can be added to your compost. They provide additional organic matter.