Composting is nature's recycling.  We can speed up the process by creating the ideal conditions for the rapid decomposition of organic materials, such as leaves, vegetable, and fruit peels. Compost is the dark, curmbly, soil-like material that remainse once organic materials have decomposed.

In 1993, the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) created the NYC Compost Project, which established compost programs at the City's 4 botanical gardens and the Lower East Side Ecology Center in Manhattan.  Today, DSNY's Bureau of Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling (BWPRR) funds and manages compost projects in all 5 boroughs and also maintains a comprehensive website on composting.

The New York City Compost Project at Queens Botanical Garden works to educate Queens and the rest of New York City on the many benefits of composting.  These benefits include bringing nutrients back to our city soils, reducing solid waste and sanitation costs, and creating a sustainable and healthy environment.

Contact the NYC Compost Project in Queens:
Queens Botanical Garden
43-50 Main Street
Flushing, NY  11355

Compost Helpline: 718.539.LAWN (5296) and compost@queensbotanical.org.

Current information and services include the following:

Compost 101

Learn how to compost your leaves, kitchen scraps, garden clippings, and other select organic material by following these easy instructions.

Compost & Lawn Care Workshops

Find Queens workshops and citywide workshops.

Compost Demonstration Garden

See the latest composting systems in action in the Compost Demonstration Garden including the Earth Machine, a 3-bin system, a compost bench, and other bins suitable for backyards in Queens.

Compost Bin Sales

The Earth Machine (available to NYC residents for $60, tax included) can be purchased by city residents by appointment only.  Also available in limited quantities are Compost Cranks for $42 and Rodent Guards for $15.  Please note, bin sales are by appointment and only cash or check payment is accepted.

Please call the Compost Helpline at 718.539.LAWN (5296) or email compost@queensbotanical.org to make an appointment.