What to do with used yerba (instead of throwing it out)

Plant fertilizer, compost and other uses for what's left in your gourd.

After the round, the gourd is full of spent yerba. Before you toss it in the trash, it's good for a few things.

Fertilizer for your plants

Used yerba is organic matter: it adds nitrogen and improves the soil. Spread it in thin layers over pots or the garden, without piling it up, so it doesn't grow mold.

Into the compost

It's one of the best things to add to a compost bin because it breaks down quickly. Mix it with dry leaves or cardboard to balance the moisture.

Before you use it

If you won't use it right away, let it dry: damp and sealed up, it gets moldy.
If you drink sweetened mate, keep it out of your pots: the sugar attracts ants.

Better not to

Don't pour it down the sink or the toilet: it clogs the pipes.