Free City of Edmonton Compost

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Compost will be available again starting in the spring.

In 2024, over 20,000 residents collected more than 3,300 tonnes of free high-quality compost.

City of Edmonton Compost is made from yard waste dropped off at Eco Stations by residents and collected as part of the residential curbside collections program. This material is composted at the Edmonton Waste Management Centre.

This compost is rich in organic matter: it enriches plant mixes and enhances the growth of turf, ornamental plants, vegetables and fruit trees.

View compost composition and directions for use.

Proper Compost Use

Compost adds organic matter, nutrients and microbes to soil. It balances pH and helps with structure, porosity and moisture retention.

Use a little, not a lot. Compost is like a slow-release fertilizer. Use 1 part compost for every 3 parts soil for best results.
Mix compost with soil. You should not plant directly into pure compost.
For topdressing and mulch, spread a thin layer of finished compost on the garden, around plants, or on a lawn. Compost will slowly mix into the soil, adding nutrients for plant roots.
This compost is weed-free. The high temperatures of the composting process kill weeds.
Wear protective gloves and wash hands after use.

Horticultural compost is also available for bulk purchase and in pre-packaged bags - 30 litres/11 kilograms each - at select retailers.

Take advantage of our hands-on composting workshops, visit Compost School, sign up for newsletters and more!

Learn the basics of composting at home. You’ll find tips on getting started, maintaining your composter and what materials you can compost.

Find information on sorting and managing food scraps in your home.

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311

Telephone

In Edmonton: 311

Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311

Email	wastesupport@edmonton.ca