What to Compost

Almost all yard waste can be added to your compost.

leaves	grass clippings	twigs
branches	weeds	vines
thatch	garden plants	flowers
unused potting soil and mix	straw

Much of your food waste can be composted.

egg shells	coffee grounds	tea leaves and bags
vegetable and fruit scraps and peels	corn cobs	stale bread and cereal
nut shells	flour	rice
oatmeal

Other items that you can compost include:

human hair	feathers	small amounts of wood ash
wood chips	dead insects	vacuum bag contents

What shouldn't I compost?

Some items either do not degrade well, attract insects and pests, or might contain diseases or chemicals that would contaminate the compost.

meat	poultry	seafood
dairy products	diseased plants	human and pet feces (including kitty litter)
mayonnaise	salad dressing	peanut butter
lard	other fatty items

Next - How do I compost?

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More Information on Composting

Make Compost
Make compost from your kitchen scraps and yard waste. Reduce your waste while providing nutrients for your plants and garden.

How to Compost
Now that you know what to compost, learn how to compost and find which option will work best for you. Learn which methods produce compost fastest, and which require the most maintenance and attention.

Worm Compost
Provides information on how to worm compost, or vermicompost. Learn why you might want to include red wigglers in your compost plans.

Compost Bins
Provides information on several types of compost bins, including pros and cons of each. Learn how to make your own bin and find information on the best pre-fabricated bins.