Why compost at home?
Turning kitchen leftovers and garden waste into nutrient-rich soil is a natural process. When you compost at home, you reduce the amount of trash going to the landfill, lower your garbage bills, and gain free fertilizer for your plants. This method works best in a backyard bin or pile, where organic matter decomposes into dark, crumbly soil over a period of several months.
Setting up your compost bin
Locate a flat area in your yard that receives partial sunlight and remains slightly damp. Both closed bins and open piles are effective options. You may purchase a pre-made bin, construct one using wood, or assemble a basic wire enclosure. Ensure the container has a cover to prevent animal access and maintain moisture levels.
Position your bin close to a water tap so you can hydrate it during dry spells. Residents in apartments or condos without outdoor space should consult our guide to community drop-off locations.
What goes in your bin
Effective composting requires a balance of green materials (nitrogen-rich) and brown materials (carbon-rich). The ideal ratio is three parts brown material to one part green material.
- Browns: Dry leaves, shredded newspaper, cardboard, straw, sawdust, and wood chips.
- Greens: Fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, fresh grass clippings, and plant trimmings.
Cut or shred materials into small pieces. Smaller items decompose faster and provide finished compost sooner.
What to leave out
Exclude these items from your backyard bin to prevent odours, pests, and disease:
- Meat, fish, and dairy products
- Fat, grease, or oily foods
- Animal waste or pet litter
- Diseased plants or weeds that have gone to seed
- Plastic, glass, or metal items
If you are not sure whether something can be composted, check the Green Bin list or use the online disposal guide.
Keeping it going
Aerate your compost using a fork or shovel every one to two weeks. Oxygen supports beneficial bacteria in breaking down materials quickly. Monitor moisture levels regularly; the pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Add water if it is dry, and cover it with a tarp or extra browns if it is too wet.
Your compost is ready when it appears dark, smells earthy, and the original scraps are unrecognizable. This process typically takes three to six months.
Winter composting
Composting slows down in the cold months, but you can keep going. Keep the bin covered to protect it from snow and wind. You can also move the bin to a sheltered spot against a fence or the side of your house. If the ground freezes solid, pause turning the pile until spring. When the snow melts, resume turning and watering to kickstart the process.
Ready-made compost
If you do not have the space or time for a backyard bin, the City offers free compost to residents each spring. Visit Compost available for residents for dates and locations. You can also apply for the Backyard Composter Rebate through the City's online portal or at the Service Wrenford counter to help cover the cost of a certified composter.