Composting

Composting is the biological break down of organic kitchen waste, such as vegetable and fruit peelings, and yard waste, such as grass and leaves, into a soil-enriching compost. Thousands of organisms: worms, insects, fungi, bacteria, naturally break down organic wastes into simple compounds that plants use. The well managed backyard composter mimics and speeds up nature’s decaying process. Be patient, materials do decompose at different rates, but all will break down eventually. See 10 Reasons to Love Compost.

What household waste can be composted?

This table outlines common household items that can be composted, including fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, yard waste, and more. It provides a quick reference to help you identify what can be added to your compost bin for a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. 

Browns

  • Dry Grass Clippings
  • Dry Leaves
  • Newspaper
  • Shredded Soiled Cardboard
  • Straw
  • Untreated Woodchips / Sawdust

Greens

  • Coffee Grounds
  • Egg Shells
  • Grass Clippings
  • Plant Cuttings
  • Tea & Tea Bags
  • Vegetable & Fruit Trimmings

Composting tips

  • Treat your pile like a living organism - it will need air, water and food.
  • Use equal amounts of green (nitrogen rich) materials and brown (carbon rich) material

Backyard Composting

  • Reduces the amount of waste going to landfills
  • Saves on waste disposal costs
  • Takes place at home and saves collection costs
  • Composted material can be added to flower beds and vegetable gardens to increase nutrient content of the soil