COMPOST IN A CUP
For this experiment, we are going to make a mini composting bin in a
cup to show the composting process and how composting can reduce
food waste and help the environment.
Ingredients and supplies:
• 16 oz. cup with holes in bottom
• Pair of gloves
• Large bowl
• Organic compostable items – Leaves,
grass clippings, vegetable scraps,
fruit scraps, coffee grinds, etc.
• 1/4 cup soil or dirt
• 1-2 teaspoons of water
• Piece of plastic wrap
• Rubber band
• Large plastic spoon
Instructions
Before beginning this experiment, you will need to collect the organic
items you plan on composting. There are many different materials you
can add to your compost cup. (See the list of what to include, above)
Things that come from plants or trees, orange peels, excess fruit, egg
shells, etc are good to include. Things you do not want to include
are meat, dairy products, and seafood. Once you have collected your
organic items, make sure they are torn or chopped up into small pieces
and place them in a large bowl, add 1/4 cup of dirt and 1-2 teaspoons
of water, and mix.
Next, take your 16 oz. cup with holes in the bottom, and a pair of
gloves. Using the large plastic spoon, take 2 scoops from your bowl
and place them into your cup. Now, take your piece of plastic wrap
and place it on top of your cup. Secure it around the rim of the cup
with the rubber band. Make sure the plastic wrap is nice and tight on
the cup and the rubber band is secure.
Compost piles need sun, shade, water and movement so put your
cup in a window that gets a good amount of sun or outside in an area
that has exposure to the sun for part of the day. Periodically add 1
teaspoon of water to your cup and give the contents a little "shake".
If placed outside, rainwater and a little "shake" will do the trick! The
water and movement will assist with the composting process.
The area in which you choose to place your compost cup is
important. Bacteria and fungi LOVE to a warm environment. So
placing the cup in the sun warms the organic material, which promotes
increased microbial activity. You want your compost to stay moist, so
some shade is good too. The shade keeps the compost from becoming
too warm, which could cause your compost to dry out.
Composting needs oxygen, heat and water to be successful. These
three elements help the microorganisms to multiply and survive.
8 • Off icialKidsMag.com • NOVEMBER 2019
