Composting Publications, Resources, and Plans

A collection of composting publications, ranging from composting methods and techniques to schematics for various composting systems.

Publications

Compost in the backyard

Quick tips for composting your kitchen, yard and garden waste.

Aug 2017 | Article

Choosing a Composting System

Various methods to composting.

Aug 2017 | Fact Sheet

Composting with worms

Information about how to use worms to compost.

Dec 2017 | Article

Do the rot thing - choosing and using a composting system

Covers several methods of composting and when to use each one. Including sheet mulch composting, low-fuss composting, add-as-you-go composting, hot composting, tumbler composting, and food or pet waste digesters.

Aug 2017 | Article

Local Resources

Compost and Worm Bin Resources

A list of local resources for composting materials in Lane County.

Mar 2018 | Fact Sheet

Leaf Collection and Delivery Program

Eugene's program for disposing of fall leaves.

Jul 2018 | Online resource

Videos

Recycling 101- Composting

A short video introduction to composting.

Jul 2012 | Video

Schematics

55 Gallon Worm Bin

Schematics for the construction of a 55 gallon, blue plastic compost barrel.

Ginny Ducale | Aug 2008 | Fact Sheet

3-Bin Compost System

Schematics for a 3 bin composting system.

Ginny Ducale | Apr 2008 | Fact Sheet

July 2018

Lynn Ketchum photo of hands in worm compost

Want to learn more about this topic? Explore more resources from OSU Extension: Garden Soil and Compost

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Fall yardwork tips?

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Composting with Worms

This publication provides step-by-step methods for successful worm composting at home. It includes a concise explanation of specific worm physiology, kinds of bins to use and how to set them up, what to feed the worms, how to...

Sam Angima | Oct 2011 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

Five ways that home gardeners can improve soil

Soil is the foundation for all gardens. Home gardeners have several options to improve poor soil. Here's a look at five: adding organic matter, using fertilizer, tilling, changing the pH and creating raised beds.

Nicole Sanchez | Mar 2019 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Willamette Valley Soil Quality Card

Use in conjunction with the Willamette Valley Soil Quality Card Guide (EM 8710), which includes detailed information about each indicator listed on the Soil Quality Card. Designed to assess current soil quality conditions, record ...

Jun 1998 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

Willamette Valley Soil Quality Card Guide

Designed to supplement the Willamette Valley Soil Quality Card (EM 8711) by providing additional information on soil quality indicators. For each soil quality indicator, the guide contains a description, explanation of why the ...

Jun 1998 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

The Mulch Mystery

Lesson plans for an eight-session 4th or 5th grade class experiment to be conducted both in the classroom and at a field site. Explores the best method for getting rid of invasive plants by testing various mulch treatments, ...

Aug 2007 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

Herbicide-Contaminated Compost and Soil Mix: What You Should Know — and What You Can Do About It

Compost and soil mix products sometimes contain herbicide residue. This residue can damage certain vegetable, fruit and flower crops. The residue likely comes from contaminated hay, grass clippings or manure. Watch for stunted growth...

Weston Miller | Feb 2021 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

How to Use Compost in Gardens and Landscapes

Compost is a soil amendment consisting of partially broken-down organic material. Use compost to improve soil for vegetable gardens, landscape areas and lawns. Learn how to apply the correct amount of compost and how to avoid common compost mistakes.

Weston Miller | Feb 2021 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

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