Backyard Composting

Home composting is an easy way to turn organic waste into a rich soil amendment. All you need is a compost bin and a pitch fork, which you can find at most lawn and garden stores. Contact your city about rules and restrictions. 

Backyard Composting "How-to" Videos:

• English
• Español
• Hmoob
• Soomaali

Items you can compost:

• Small amounts of leaves.
• Grass clippings.
• Twigs.
• Other plant material (except weeds gone to seed).
• Food scraps (except meat, bones, grease and dairy).
• Coffee grounds and tea bags.
• Soiled paper and paper products, like dirty napkins, paper plates and paper egg cartons.
• Do not add compostable plastics. They will not break down in a backyard compost bin.

Helpful resources

• How to compost
• Diagnosing common backyard compost problems
• University of Minnesota Extension advice
• Benefits of compost
• How to use compost

Compost bin sales

Ramsey County offers compost bins year-round with a pick-up location in Maplewood. The compost bins are $66, plus tax. Ramsey County residents can get an additional $20 off! Order online at RecycleMinnesota.org and enter promo code “Ramsey” to receive the discounted price or call 651-641-4589 and mention that you are a Ramsey County resident. Then call Ramsey County Environmental Health at 651-266-1199 to arrange a pick-up time.

Compost more items

Learn about our organics recycling recycling drop-off for residents and our business assistance program.

Master Gardeners

Need advice? Visit a Master Gardener at their Question & Answer Booth during select times at our yard waste sites. Or call the Master Gardener line at 612-301-7590.

Yard Waste

Ramsey County operates seven yard waste sites collection sites. All sites are free and open to Ramsey County residents only, a photo ID is required.