What can I put in the compost pile? What does composting mean, and how does it work? Read More ›
Left on its own, all organic matter will eventually break down through the action of hungry bacteria and fungi as well as larger creatures such as worms, sow bugs, and centipedes. These decomposers consume decaying plant material and convert it into humus.
Composting speeds up this natural process. In just a few months, you can potentially create a topsoil-like amendment that would have taken decades to form naturally. It can then be added to your soil to improve its structure—allowing air and water to enter easily and be retained.NYC Compost Project Resources ›
Learn About Composting
The average household throws away 2 pounds of organic waste each day—vegetable cuttings, fruit peels, eggshells, coffee grounds, and yard trimmings that could instead be composted. When we discard organic waste, we not only lose precious landfill space but also miss out on a valuable resource that can help beautify parks, gardens, and lawns.
NYC Compost Project
The NYC Compost Project hosted by Brooklyn Botanic Garden helps to reduce waste in NYC and rebuild city soils by giving New Yorkers the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to produce and use compost. The project is funded and managed by the NYC Department of Sanitation's Bureau of Recycling and Sustainability.
Visit BBG’s Composting Exhibit, located near the Children's Garden, to see a variety of compost bins, organic materials in different stages of decomposition, and signs to explain the composting process.
Community groups can request assistance and volunteer support for starting and maintaining composting operations. Learn More ›
Low-Cost Composting Equipment
NYC residents can purchase at-cost compost bins and equipment suitable for urban composting.