You can make compost by mixing and decomposing organic matter made from leaves, grass clippings, wood chips and fruit and vegetable scraps. How Does it Work?

Tools you may need: shovel or pitchfork to turn the pile; compost thermometer to help monitor pile heat (optional).

Recipe for Easy Compost:

1. Put different yard trimmings such as leaves and grass clippings in a bin or pile. You should have a mix of green material and brown material. Add water so the pile is slightly damp. “Turn” the pile at least once a month. The pile should reach a temperature of 130 to 160 degrees and will be ready in 6 to 9 months. The more frequently you turn the pile, the faster your compost will be ready.
2. Add fruit and vegetable scraps as generated. Cover the new kitchen scraps with leaves or bury them in the pile. If the pile dries out, add more water to keep it damp.
3. After 12 to 16 months, most of the material at the bottom of the pile will be dark, rich sweet-smelling compost. Sift or sort out any large, un-decomposed materials.
4. Sprinkle on your yard and garden!

What Can Be Composted?

• Grass Clippings
• Yard Trimmings (old plants, wilted flowers, small prunings)
• Leaves
• Vegetable & Fruit Scraps
• Coffee Grounds
• Tea Leaves
• Wood Chips
• Shredded Paper (low-grade that is not recyclable)

What to Avoid

• Meat, Fish and Poultry (including bones)
• Food Sauces
• Fats, Grease, and Oils
• Dairy Products
• Pet Feces
• Invasive Weeds
• Treated Wood (or material containing preservatives/toxins)
• Ashes and charcoal
• Non-organics (plastic, metal, glass, etc.)

Alternatives to Compost Piles

Not ready for a bin or compost pile? There are other simple alternatives to disposing of yard waste.

For more information, contact Solid Waste Services at 512-494-9400 or by email.