Home Composting

Updated 1/2024

Learn the science behind and the benefits of home composting, including information on different composting methods, recommended compostable materials, and common uses of compost around the yard and garden. This class topic is part of the Horticultural Skills priority of the Master Gardener program. 

If you enjoyed this class, please join us for another. Current and upcoming classes are posted on our website. 

Class Handouts

• Slide Presentation (Slide print-out)

• Participant Class Handout

Related Handouts

• How to Compost (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency)

• Diagnosing common backyard composting problems (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency)

• Organic Waste/Food Scraps Acceptability List (Ramsey County MN)

• How to Use Compost Tip Sheet (NYC Department of Sanitation Compost Project)

• Selecting A Backyard Compost Bin (University of Connecticut Soil Nutrient Analysis Laboratory)

• Compost Bin Designs (Cornell Cooperative Extension)

• Compost Food Scraps Indoors Using Red Wiggler Worms (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency)

• Bokashi Composting (Earth Carers)

Online Resources

PRO-TIP: Google “site:edu compost” (or site:gov) for more research-based advice

• University of Minnesota Extension: Composting in Home Gardens 

• University of Minnesota Extension: Living Soil, Healthy Garden

• University of MN Extension Soil Testing Laboratory 

• Ramsey County Recycling & Waste: Backyard Composting 

• Ramsey County Recycling & Waste: Yard Waste

• Ramsey County Recycling & Waste: Food Scraps/Organics Recycling

• MN Pollution Control Agency