Gardening enthusiasts often look for ways to enrich their soil naturally, and one common practice is burying kitchen scraps directly into the garden. This method is believed to improve soil fertility, promote healthy plant growth, and reduce waste. We decided to give it a try, and here’s what happened.
Day 1: The Burial
We gathered a variety of kitchen scraps including vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and fruit rinds. Avoiding meat, dairy, and oily foods to prevent attracting pests, we dug shallow trenches in different parts of our garden and buried the scraps. The soil was then covered back over the scraps.
Week 1: No Immediate Change
For the first week, there was no noticeable change in the garden. The buried scraps remained undisturbed, and our plants continued to grow as usual. However, a slight increase in earthworm activity was observed around the burial sites, which we took as a positive sign.
Week 3: Increased Soil Moisture
By the third week, we noticed that the soil where the scraps were buried retained moisture better than other areas. The decomposition process had begun, and the organic matter was breaking down, enhancing the soil’s ability to hold water. This was particularly beneficial during dry spells, as it reduced the need for frequent watering.
Month 1: Boost in Plant Growth
After a month, the benefits of burying the kitchen scraps became more apparent. Plants near the burial sites showed more vigorous growth and greener foliage compared to those farther away. The nutrients released from the decomposing scraps seemed to provide an additional boost to the plants’ health.
