To Compost or Not to Compost, That is the Question

Let’s be honest: composting sounds wholesome and green and very “I grow kale now.” But in reality? It can also sound like work, worms, and a risk of flies staging a small uprising.

So — should you compost? Let’s have a look at the pros and cons.

The Case For Composting:

It turns waste into gold

Not actual gold, but soil gold — which is arguably more useful. All your veg peelings, eggshells, and garden clippings can be turned into rich, lovely compost that makes plants very happy.

It cuts down on waste

Food scraps account for a big chunk of household bin waste. Composting keeps it out of landfill and stops it smelling up your bin like an old sock.

Your plants will love you

Compost improves soil structure, retains moisture, and gives a gentle nutrient boost — especially good for tired beds, pots, or that one patch where nothing thrives except that weird weed.

It’s weirdly satisfying

There’s a small, smug joy in seeing your scraps slowly become dark, crumbly goodness. And you get to say things like “my compost’s cooking nicely” like an absolute pro.

The Case Against Composting:

It can be smelly (if done wrong)

Too much wet kitchen waste and not enough brown material (like dry leaves or cardboard)? It might get smelly.

It attracts some... guests

Flies, ants, slugs, the occasional overly interested neighbourhood cat. Most of them are harmless, but you’ll want a lidded bin.

It needs a bit of attention

Compost is a bit like sourdough: leave it totally alone and it sulks. Give it the occasional stir and balance, and it thrives.

You need the space

Not ideal for teeny-tiny patios unless you go the bokashi or wormery route — which can be great, but might scare off the faint of heart.

So… Should You?

If you’ve got a bit of garden, a smidge of patience, and the willingness to learn what “greens and browns” actually means — go for it.

If your space is tight or your enthusiasm is more “lazy green finger” than “keen composter,” that’s okay too. You can still:

• Use council composting schemes

• Gift scraps to compost-happy neighbours

• Focus on reducing food waste instead

There’s no compost police. Just slightly smug people with better courgettes.

Need help setting up your first compost bin? Or want to reclaim the one that's become a fly-themed horror movie? Get in touch — Happy Place offers garden TLC in all its earthy, wonderful forms.

Nature, nurtured.