Vegan Composting: An Emerging Trend in Sustainable Gardening
Awareness of veganism is increasing, but not many are familiar with the concept of vegan composting. As we think about composting in the context of veganism, it's important to understand how this process aligns with a vegan lifestyle.
Veganuary and Its Impact on Gardening Choices
Similar to initiatives like Dry January and Red January, Veganuary is growing in popularity. It involves adopting a vegan diet for a month, often leading to a permanent lifestyle change. This shift in dietary habits is also influencing gardening practices, particularly in the choice of compost.
The Challenge of Finding Mainstream Vegan-Friendly Compost
While there's a variety of compost types available, such as peat-free, loam-based, and organic, finding a mainstream vegan-friendly compost is surprisingly difficult. Even when certified by the Vegan Society and approved by the Soil Association, these products are scarce in local garden centres, especially for specific uses like potting and seed composts.
Uncovering the Hidden Ingredients of Commercial Compost
The exact ingredients of compost are often unknown unless you make your own. Municipal compost, for example, can include animal by-products from household waste. Additionally, bagged composts might contain fish, blood, bone meal, and eggshells, which are contrary to vegan principles. Veganic gardeners recommend using alternatives like comfrey and nettles to provide necessary nutrients.
Navigating Compost Certification and Ingredients
Compost brands might have a PAS 100 certification, ensuring quality, but this doesn't guarantee transparency regarding ingredients. 'Organic' compost often includes materials like poultry manure or fish emulsion. It's advisable to question compost producers or opt for making your own compost at home.
The Importance of DIY Vegan Composting
For those committed to veganism, creating your own vegan compost is a logical next step. Home composting allows full control over what goes into your compost bin, ensuring that your gardening practices are in line with your ethical choices.
Choosing Ingredients for Vegan Compost
Approach the ingredients for your vegan compost as you would the ingredients in your vegan meals. By making rich organic vegan compost at home, you ensure that your garden's growing medium reflects your concern for animal welfare and the environment, completely free from animal products.
Maintaining Soil Fertility with Plant-Based Composts
Soil fertility can be effectively maintained with natural vegetable and plant-based composts, mulches, and crop rotations. These methods are sustainable and don't rely on animal products, proving that soil health doesn't require inputs from animal sources.
The Role of Weeds in Vegan Composting
Weeds, often seen as a nuisance, are actually a great ingredient for compost. They bring nutrients to the surface from deep within the soil. Rather than discarding them, use annual and perennial weeds in your compost heap or turn them into liquid fertiliser.
The Advantages of Homemade Organic Vegan Compost
Organic vegan compost made at home is just as effective, if not more, than purchased composts. It's suitable for a wide range of plants, including fruits, vegetables, indoor plants, and flowers, supporting the growth of virtually any plant while adhering to vegan principles.