Compost Bin Discards: A Crossword Clue Conundrum
Ah, the humble compost bin. A haven for kitchen scraps, yard waste, and all manner of organic matter destined for a second life as rich, fertile soil. But what about those items that don’t belong? This week’s crossword clue throws us a curveball, challenging us to identify something that would be utterly unwelcome in a compost pile.
Let’s delve into the world of composting, explore the forbidden fruits (and other materials) of this crucial recycling process, and ultimately crack the code of this perplexing clue.
What Makes the Cut?
Composting is a beautiful act of transformation, breaking down organic waste into valuable compost. But not everything is created equal in the world of compostable materials. Some common ingredients include:
Kitchen Scraps:
Fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and tea bags are all welcome additions.
Yard Waste:
Leaves, grass clippings, and even small branches can be composted.
Paper Products:
Newspapers, cardboard, and paper towels are often welcomed (though avoid glossy paper).
Compost Bin No-Nos
While the majority of organic waste is suitable for composting, certain materials can wreak havoc on the process. These “compost bin discards” are often:
Meat and Bones:
These items attract pests and can take a long time to break down, leading to unpleasant smells and potential disease.
Dairy Products:
Dairy products like milk and cheese can attract pests and contribute to unpleasant odors.
Oils and Fats:
These substances can prevent proper decomposition and create a greasy, unusable compost.
Diseased Plants:
Plants with fungal diseases or pests should not be added to the compost pile.
Synthetic Materials:
Plastic, metal, and other synthetic materials do not break down and can contaminate the compost.
The Crossword Challenge
With this knowledge in hand, we are ready to tackle the crossword clue. It’s likely that the answer will be something that falls into the “compost bin discards” category. Think about the characteristics of these unwelcome items – what makes them unsuitable for composting?
Good luck, crossword solvers! May your pencils be sharp and your compost bins be free of unwanted additions!
Available Answers:
CORES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 28 Jun 24, Friday