Composting FAQs

What is compost?

Compost is decomposed organic matter, made from leaves grass clippings, wood chips and fruit and vegetable scraps. Added to your soil or broadcast over your yard and garden, it will make plants thrive. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, compost will not run off and pollute the watershed for the Trinity River.

What does compost do?

Compost improves the water holding capacity, drainage and workability of our soil. It also helps break down the heavy clay soils found here in Grand Prairie.

Compost can be used on flower and vegetable beds, as ground cover and on lawns, trees and shrubs.

Who can compost?

Anyone can compost. You only need a small space in your yard for a pile or bin.

Why compost?

By composting yard waste and kitchen scraps, you can divert 30% of the total residential waste stream. Composting saves valuable landfill space and turns your yard waste into money-saving, nutrient-rich organic material for your garden and houseplants.

How do I compost?

• Here is the basic approach:
  • collect leaves, grass and yard clippings
  • place in a heap or in a bin roughly 3'x3'x3'
  • sprinkle with water and maintain dampness.
• For quicker composting (1-3 months): alternate layers of green and brown materials, aerate the pile by turning and poking, chop materials into smaller pieces and keep the mound moist.
• For slower composting (3-6+ months): just keep adding material to your pile or bin and keep it moist.