Ever given thought to the countless sheets of paper that we toss away daily? Many eco-conscious individuals have sought to repurpose their paper waste, and one intriguing idea is using paper as a fertilizer for plants.
Paper can be used as a component in composting, which in turn can serve as a form of fertilizer. The cellulose fibers present in paper decompose over time, breaking down into organic matter. However, the utility of paper as a fertilizer is often intertwined with the type of paper and how it’s processed before being added to soil.
The rest of this article will delve into the science behind using paper as a fertilizer, the benefits, potential challenges, and ways to effectively integrate it into your gardening routine.
How Does Paper Enhance Compost Quality?
Paper, particularly untreated and non-glossy varieties, is primarily composed of cellulose. Cellulose is a significant source of carbon, making paper an excellent carbon-rich addition to compost piles. Composting typically requires a balanced ratio of carbon (brown materials) to nitrogen (green materials). Adding shredded paper helps achieve this balance.
But a word of caution: always ensure that the paper is free from harmful inks and other chemicals. While most modern inks are now soy-based and eco-friendly, older papers might have less safe ink compositions.
In addition to its rich carbon content, paper serves as an excellent bulking agent in compost piles. Its fibrous nature allows for improved aeration, which is vital for aerobic decomposition. When compost has proper aeration, it encourages the growth of beneficial microbes that expedite the decomposition process.
These microbes require oxygen to thrive, and a well-aerated compost pile can prevent the growth of anaerobic bacteria that produce foul odors. So, incorporating paper not only balances the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio but also ensures a healthier, faster-decomposing, and less smelly compost pile.
Types of Paper Suitable for Composting
From my observations and interactions with other garden enthusiasts, some papers fare better in compost than others:
- Newspaper: Thin and easily decomposable, newspapers are a common sight in compost bins.
- Cardboard: Non-treated cardboard, especially corrugated kinds, are great, but remember to remove any non-biodegradable components.
- Office paper: It can be composted, but avoid any glossy variants. Shredding can expedite decomposition.
- Paper towels and tissues: These are good to go for composting if they haven’t been in contact with chemicals. And if you’re curious about composting other organic materials, here are our guides on Can You Compost Carrots? and Can You Compost Nut Shells?.
Should I Shred Paper Before Using as Fertilizer?
The simple answer is yes, shredding paper before adding it to your compost or using it as mulch is highly beneficial. Here’s why:
- Faster Decomposition: Smaller pieces break down quicker. Shredded paper provides more surface area for the composting microbes to work on, speeding up the decomposition process.
- Prevents Matting: Large, unshredded paper pieces can mat together, forming a barrier that may impede moisture and airflow, crucial elements for effective composting.
- Better Integration: Shredded paper mixes more easily and uniformly with other compost materials, ensuring a balanced decomposition.
Best Practices for Using Paper as Fertilizer
If you’re considering using paper in your compost, here are some practices to note:
- Shred the paper: It not only speeds up decomposition but also helps in even distribution in the compost pile.
- Pair with nitrogen-rich materials: Complement the carbon-rich paper with materials like grass clippings and vegetable scraps.
- Keep an eye on moisture levels: Paper can absorb a lot, so ensure your compost is moist, but not overly wet.
- Choose your papers wisely: Avoid papers with glossy finishes or any potentially harmful inks.
Conclusion
In the sustainability-driven world of gardening, using paper as fertilizer offers a dual benefit of recycling and soil enrichment. By ensuring the right kind of paper is used and maintaining a balanced compost mix, we not only contribute to waste reduction but also pave the way for a more organic and flourishing garden.