Compost in a jar

Compost in a jar is a perfect way to see how food scraps are broken down into compost on a small scale. 

Materials

• Container with lid for collecting food scraps
• Clear glass jar with lid, like an old spaghetti sauce jar
• Dried materials like dried leaves or shredded paper - two handfuls
• Green materials like fruit and vegetable scraps and coffee grounds - one handful

​Directions

1. Fill the jar ⅓ of the way with dried materials (about one handful)
2. Add another ⅓ of green materials (about one handful)
3. Add the final ⅓ with dried materials
4. Add ½ cup of water 
5. Put the lid on the jar and tighten
6. Poke 4-5 holes in the lid
7. Place in a sunny spot outdoors
8. After two weeks, return to your jar and observe any changes. 
9. Shake the jar to mix up the contents and add a little water if it’s dry
10. Repeat every two weeks until your food scraps and dry materials turn into compost (about 10-12 weeks).
11. Add your finished compost to your garden. ​

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