Several London authorities actively encourage composting in households through the provision of composting bins. Check with your local authority to find out which options they offer. Alternatively, if you have a small garden or live in a flat you may be better off taking compostable materials to a centralised composting site run by the council. Often, the authority may take green waste away or have recycling centres where it be taken.

All you need to do is place the materials into a container, often made from recycled plastic and having a lid and side access. Occasional turning and adding of new green and other appropriate waste will help speed the composting process.

What can be composted?

• Lawn clippings
• Vegetable and fruit scraps
• Shredded stalks and hedge clippings
• Cut flowers
• Egg shells
• Tea bags, leaves and coffee grounds

What can’t be composted?

• Diseased plants
• Plastics, glass and other non-organic materials
• Cooked food including meat and fish
• Coloured glossy paper
• Pet faeces

How long does it take to make compost?

Composting can take weeks or months, depending on how much air and moisture the compost receives. By turning the compost regularly you should make compost in 4-7 months. In winter it will take longer because the cold will slow the process down.

Why does compost turn wet and slimy?

Usually because it contains too much soft material eg. grass and vegetable peelings etc. Adding chopped up twigs and wood chips and some shredded or some old newspaper will help give the compost a better texture.