Creating compost using your kitchen waste is not difficult. However, before throwing all of your leftovers into the compost bin, it is wise to be aware of what is acceptable in your compost and what isn't. Did you know that Americans generate nearly 200 pounds per family of kitchen waste and scraps that could be turned into usable compost each year? Here is a brief look at how you can get started in helping to reverse this trend.

As I mentioned before, not all kitchen waste is suitable for the compost bin. Vegetable and fruit scraps work well. Meats and oils do not. Most material will break down over time. Meats, however, tend to attract many more flies and even animals to your compost. In addition, the odors they produce are much fouler.

Here is a list of "good" items:

• Vegetable scraps
• Grains and pastas
• Fruit rinds and peels
• Breads and cereals
• Coffee grounds and filters
• Tea bags
• Egg shells
• Paper napkins

Here is a list of "bad" items:

• Meat
• Fish and poultry
• Cheese
• Oils
• Butter
• Other animal products

Your kitchen waste will compost quicker if you can break it up a bit before taking it to your bin or pile. This is especially helpful with egg shells and tougher fruit rinds. At the other end of the spectrum, thin leafy lettuce, for example, will not need any pre conditioning before composting. Composting your kitchen scraps can really add to your composting efforts. Future generations and you garden will thank you!

Reprinted with permission.