Garbage Disposal Experts-- PLEASE HELP!

So, I have been hesitant to *really* use my garbage disposal because I am afraid of doing something to it. I was figuring we needed to get better at it so we had less food waste in our garbage for animals, etc. I have never had one before.

OF COURSE, when I decide to actually throw stuff in there other than left over food from plates-- something happens!!

I put broccoli stems in there, and it seemingly appeared fine, but now my sink drain and the disposal doesn't seem to be working properly, and I am also afraid to run the dishwasher because a friend said they are usually on the same line.

Any fixes or do I have to call a plumber?!

Re: Garbage Disposal Experts-- PLEASE HELP!

It may need to be turned on and smushed up some more. My brother put a small cobb of corn down mine once. it took a few crunches, but it did get down.

Also, since broccoli smells, you can cut a lemon in half and out that down there. It will freshen it up.