Composting

Composting turns yard trimmings and food scraps into a nutrient-rich soil enhancer right in your backyard.

Compost piles require only a minimal amount of maintenance. When added to your soil compost:

  • Loosens soil for better root penetration
  • Improves soil capacity to hold water
  • Add essential nutrients for healthier plants

Download "A Simple Guide to Backyard Composting" (PDF) for instructions on backyard composting.

Further, you can learn how to balance a compost bin, what materials are compostable, and some troubleshooting tips at a future webinar or in-person seminar. To receive information on upcoming classes or compost bin sales, fill out the online sign-up form and select "Composting Information."

For other helpful tips, seasonal reminders, and fun stories about composting in Hamilton County, check out our composting blog: Confessions of a Composter.

Building or Purchasing a Compost Bin

A compost bin is not required; however, a bin holds in moisture and heat, speeding up the decomposition process (and it looks more attractive in the yard). Building your own bin is easy and inexpensive.

What Is Vermicomposting?

Compost Indoors - With Help from Worms

Kitchen scraps can be composted using an unlikely little eating machine-worms! Vermicomposting (or worm bin composting) has become a popular way to recycle most kinds of food matter right in the kitchen or garage. The process is odor-free, quick, and provides high-grade compost that is great for the soil. All you need to get started is a small closed container, a bedding of aged sawdust, leaves or shredded newspaper, a little soil that contains microorganisms, some red worms, and a few helpful hints.

Red Wiggler Worm Supplier

Red wigglers are available for purchase to use indoors only in your worm bin. Red wigglers should not be used in your backyard compost bin or pile - they are not native to our area and should not be used in an outdoor environment.

Buckeye Organics

Red Wigglers and other types of worms are available for purchase. Contact Buckeye Organics at 740-349-0566 or visit the Buckeye Organics website.