Free Residential Compost Service
Composting is a great way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden or plants. Fortunately, St. Petersburg has its own free composting program, making it easy for residents to get started with this eco-friendly practice.
If you're new to composting, the first step is to decide on a location for your compost bin. Ideally, it should be in a spot that's easy to access, but also out of the way. You can purchase an in-home compost bin at most home improvement or gardening stores, or even make your own using materials you have around your kitchen - old jars, etc.
Once you have your bin set up, it's time to start composting! The key to successful composting is finding the right balance of green and brown materials. Green materials include things like vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings, garden cuttings, fresh leaves and flowers; while brown materials include dry leaves, shredded paper, wood chips (make sure these are from untreated wood) shredded black and white newspaper, egg cartons, cardboard, dead, dried-out plants (disease-free), tree bark, straw and peanut shells. It's important to keep a balance between these two types of materials, as too much of one can throw off the composting process. You should aim for a 30:1 ratio browns/greens.
You can also add things like eggshells, fruit scraps, and yard waste to your compost bin. Avoid adding meat, dairy, and oily foods, as they can attract pests and slow down the composting process.
As you add materials to your bin, be sure to turn the compost regularly to ensure it's well-aerated. Over time, your compost will break down into a dark, nutrient-rich soil that's perfect for your garden or potted plants.
So, what do you do with your finished compost? Spread it on your garden or potted plants, or mix it in with potting soil for a nutrient boost. You can also donate your compost to local community gardens or farms.
Overall, composting is a simple and effective way to reduce waste and improve the health of your plants. And with St. Petersburg's free composting program, it's easier than ever to get started! Sign up or learn more here.
