Although my parents weren’t hippies (trust me–my mom has an extensive shoe collection and there’s not a single Birkenstock in it!), we did eat lots of wheat germ and have a compost bin. After the first time the rotting produce composted into beautiful soil, it was put on our garden and the plants grew out of control. My mom declared the compost to be “Viagra” for plants (and probably a lot safer and cheaper).

Fast forward to my life in LA-smoggy, freeways, too many non-shading palm trees and pretty unsustainable. However, living in this environmental disaster zone has inspired me to be even more eco conscious in my life.  So, I started a worm compost bin last year but didn’t get far because it was either stolen (despite the zillion labels which stated that it was a worm bin) or it was thrown out by a neighbor.  Despite this annoying situation, I’ve been inspired to compost again by fellow blogger and friend, Danny Jensen.

In fact, we’re not just each composting, but we’re hosting (and blogging) about the Great American Compost.  In case you haven’t heard of the GAC (since I just came up with the name and we just started it), it will be an opportunity for Danny and me to compare our difference composting styles-hot (his) vs worm (mine). If you want to take part in our great experiment, we’d love to hear your composting tips, experiences or suggestions.  Otherwise, please stay tuned for compost updates.

The picture, above, might be boring but it’s what’s happening inside them that is the interesting part! Learn more about how to start your own compost today.

(photo: Patriotworld, Flickr Creative Commons)