Watermelon is the unofficial fruit of the summer. Once you’re done with that beautiful pink fruit, you have that giant rind left over. This leads one to ask, “can you compost watermelon rind?” Why yes, you can!
Watermelon rind compost is a terrific source of nitrogen for your garden. Because of its size and thickness, it can take a bit to decompose, but adding watermelon to your compost is no problem.
How to Add Watermelon Rinds to Compost
Like most things, you are best off cutting the rind into smaller pieces. This helps it to break down faster. It would eventually break down if you didn’t cut it up. It would just take longer.
In fact, if you’re vermicomposting, a neat trick is to place the whole rind into your compost bin for the worms if you’re going away on vacation. While you’re off seeing the sites, this gives the worms something to eat for that time. Cover it with brown material and set sail (or fly or whatever). Have a good time, your worms will be there to greet you when you return.
If you have a moist compost pile already and are adding a watermelon rind, you may want to add some brown material to help soak up some moisture.
Can You Compost Watermelon Seeds?
Like weeds, if you aren’t doing hot composting and you add seeds to your compost, they will probably survive the process. So, if you add the compost to your garden, you may very well find some random watermelon seedlings in your garden. Not the end of the world, just something to be aware of.
Can I Compost Watermelon Rinds?
Yes, you can! Watermelon rind compost is a great addition. So the next time you’re wondering, “can you put a watermelon in compost” the answer is a resounding yes. Your garden will love it (or what’s left of it).