How to Start Composting in Pennsylvania Backyard

Composting is one of the most effective and environmentally responsible ways to manage organic waste while enriching your garden soil. In Pennsylvania, where seasons vary dramatically—from cold, snowy winters to hot, humid summers—composting presents unique challenges and opportunities. Yet, with the right approach, residents across the state can turn kitchen scraps and yard debris into nutrient-rich humus that boosts plant health, reduces landfill waste, and supports sustainable living.

More than 30% of household waste in Pennsylvania consists of organic materials that could be composted instead of sent to landfills. When these materials decompose anaerobically in landfills, they produce methane—a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. By composting at home, you directly reduce your carbon footprint while creating a free, natural fertilizer for lawns, flower beds, and vegetable gardens.

This guide is designed for Pennsylvania homeowners—whether you live in the urban core of Philadelphia, the rolling hills of the Poconos, or the rural farmlands of Lancaster County. It provides a complete, step-by-step roadmap to starting and maintaining a successful backyard composting system tailored to Pennsylvania’s climate, regulations, and common backyard conditions. You’ll learn how to choose the right bin, balance your materials, manage odors and pests, and harvest rich compost year-round—even through winter.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What Can and Cannot Be Composted

Before setting up your compost system, you need to know what materials are suitable. Successful composting relies on a balanced mix of “greens” (nitrogen-rich) and “browns” (carbon-rich) materials.

Greens (Nitrogen Sources):

- Fruit and vegetable scraps

- Coffee grounds and filters

- Tea bags (remove staples)

- Fresh grass clippings

- Plant trimmings

- Eggshells (crushed)

- Hair and fur

Browns (Carbon Sources):

- Dry leaves

- Straw or hay

- Cardboard (shredded, non-glossy)

- Newspaper (black-and-white only, shredded)

- Sawdust (from untreated wood)

- Wood chips

- Corn stalks

- Cotton or wool rags (natural fibers only)

Materials to Avoid:

- Meat, fish, bones, or dairy products (attract pests)

- Fats, oils, and grease

- Pet waste (dog, cat, or bird feces—can contain pathogens)

- Diseased or insect-infested plants

- Coal or charcoal ash

- Glossy or coated paper (e.g., magazines, catalogs)

- Plastic, metal, or synthetic materials

It’s important to note that Pennsylvania’s climate affects decomposition rates. In colder months, microbial activity slows, so avoid adding large amounts of wet greens during winter unless you’re prepared to insulate your pile.

Step 2: Choose Your Composting Method

There are several composting systems suitable for Pennsylvania backyards. Your choice depends on space, budget, and desired level of involvement.

Option A: Open Pile (Simplest, Low-Cost)

An open pile requires no container. Simply designate a corner of your yard—ideally on bare soil, away from wooden structures and property lines. This method is ideal for those with large yards and minimal concerns about aesthetics or pests.

Pros:

- Free to start

- Easy to turn and access

- Allows earthworms and beneficial microbes to enter naturally

Cons:

- Attracts rodents if not managed properly

- Slower decomposition in winter

- Less control over odor and appearance

Best for: Rural properties, large lots, experienced composters.

Option B: Enclosed Bin (Recommended for Most Homeowners)

Enclosed bins are the most popular choice in Pennsylvania suburbs and urban fringes. They contain odors, deter pests, and look neater. Look for bins made of durable plastic or wood with ventilation holes and a secure lid.

Recommended features:

- Capacity of at least 3 cubic feet (for efficient heat retention)

- Removable front panel or bottom access for harvesting

- Dark color to absorb solar heat

Popular brands include FCMP Outdoor IM4000, Envirocycle, and Nature’s Footprint. Many Pennsylvania municipalities offer discounted compost bins through sustainability programs—check with your county’s Department of Environmental Protection or Extension Office.

Option C: Tumbler Composter (Fastest Results)

A rotating tumbler is ideal if you want quick compost (as little as 4–6 weeks) and have limited space. Tumblers are elevated, sealed, and easy to turn, making them excellent for managing odors and deterring raccoons or skunks.

Pros:

- Accelerated decomposition due to aeration

- Pest-resistant

- Easy to use for seniors or those with mobility issues

Cons:

- Smaller capacity

- Higher upfront cost ($100–$300)

- Can dry out quickly in summer

Best for: Small yards, condo balconies (if permitted), and those seeking fast results.

Option D: Worm Composting (Indoor/Outdoor Option)

Also known as vermicomposting, this method uses red wiggler worms to break down food scraps. It’s ideal for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor space, but can also be used outdoors in Pennsylvania with proper insulation.

Use a stackable bin with drainage and a lid. Fill with bedding (shredded newspaper, coconut coir), add worms, and feed sparingly. Keep temperature between 55°F and 77°F. In winter, move the bin to a garage or basement, or insulate with straw and blankets.

Worm compost produces “black gold”—a nutrient-dense liquid fertilizer and castings that are excellent for potted plants and seedlings.

Step 3: Select the Right Location

Location is critical for compost success in Pennsylvania. Consider these factors:

• Sunlight: Partial sun (4–6 hours daily) helps warm the pile in spring and fall. Avoid full shade in winter—cold slows decomposition.
• Drainage: Place on well-drained soil, not clay or compacted ground. Avoid low spots where water pools.
• Proximity: Keep at least 10 feet from your home and property lines to prevent odor complaints. Near a water source is helpful for moistening.
• Accessibility: Choose a spot easy to reach year-round, especially in snow. A clear path in winter is essential.

Many Pennsylvanians successfully place bins near garden beds, making it easy to transport finished compost. Avoid placing compost directly under trees—roots may invade the pile.

Step 4: Build Your Compost Pile

Once you’ve chosen your method and location, it’s time to build the pile. Follow the “layering” technique for optimal decomposition.

Layer 1: Base (Browns)

Start with a 4–6 inch layer of coarse browns—twigs, straw, or shredded cardboard. This allows airflow at the bottom and prevents compaction.

Layer 2: Greens

Add a 2–3 inch layer of kitchen scraps or fresh grass clippings. Avoid dumping large amounts at once—spread evenly.

Layer 3: Soil or Finished Compost (Optional)

Sprinkle a thin layer of garden soil or finished compost. This introduces beneficial microbes to jumpstart decomposition.

Repeat layers until the pile is 3–5 feet high. The ideal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio is approximately 30:1. Too many greens = smelly, slimy pile. Too many browns = slow decomposition.

After building, moisten the pile like a damp sponge. It should feel cool to the touch initially but heat up within 2–5 days as microbes activate.

Step 5: Maintain and Turn Your Compost

Composting is not “set it and forget it.” Regular maintenance ensures faster, odor-free results.

Turning the Pile:

Use a pitchfork or compost aerator to turn the pile every 1–2 weeks. This introduces oxygen, which accelerates decomposition and prevents anaerobic conditions that cause foul odors.

Signs you need to turn:

- Pile smells like ammonia or rotten eggs

- Center is dry or cold

- Decomposition has stalled

Moisture Management:

Pennsylvania’s weather fluctuates. In spring and summer, rain may over-saturate your pile. Cover with a tarp or lid during heavy storms. In dry spells, water lightly while turning. The pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge—damp but not soggy.

Temperature Monitoring (Optional):

A compost thermometer (under $20) helps track internal heat. Ideal range: 135°F–160°F. This kills weed seeds and pathogens. If the pile cools below 110°F, it may need more greens, moisture, or turning.

Step 6: Harvest Your Compost

Compost is ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and smells earthy—like forest soil. This typically takes 2–6 months, depending on method, season, and maintenance.

To harvest:

1. Stop adding new material to the bin 2–4 weeks before harvesting.
2. Use a screen (1/2 inch mesh) to sift out large chunks. Return uncomposted material to the active pile.
3. Store finished compost in a covered container or tarp until use.

Use compost in spring and fall:

- Mix into garden beds (2–3 inches deep)

- Top-dress lawns (¼ inch layer)

- Blend into potting soil (up to 30%)

- Use as mulch around trees and shrubs

Compost can be used year-round in Pennsylvania, but spring application gives plants the strongest boost after winter dormancy.

Best Practices

Manage Winter Composting in Pennsylvania

Winter in Pennsylvania can bring freezing temperatures and snow cover, but composting doesn’t have to stop. Here’s how to keep your pile active:

• Insulate your bin: Wrap it in bales of straw, old blankets, or bubble wrap. Even a few inches of insulation can maintain internal heat.
• Reduce greens: Add fewer kitchen scraps. Focus on browns like shredded paper and dry leaves to avoid freezing sludge.
• Collect and store browns: Rake and bag dry leaves in fall. Store them in a dry shed or garage for winter use.
• Use a tumbler: Tumblers retain heat better than open piles and are easier to turn when frozen.
• Keep it covered: Use a tight-fitting lid or tarp to prevent snow from saturating the pile.

Even if decomposition slows, microbes remain dormant and will reactivate in early spring. Your pile may not heat up, but it won’t die.

Prevent Pests and Odors

Odors and pests are the most common complaints about composting. Here’s how to prevent them:

• Always cover greens with browns: After adding food scraps, bury them under 4–6 inches of leaves or shredded paper.
• Never add meat or dairy: These attract raccoons, opossums, and rodents—even in urban areas.
• Use a secure bin: Choose bins with locking lids or wire mesh bases to deter digging animals.
• Keep the pile balanced: A smelly pile is usually too wet or too green. Add browns and turn.
• Place bins away from bird feeders: Birds may be attracted to scraps and create messes.

Seasonal Composting Calendar for Pennsylvania

Adjust your composting routine with the seasons for best results:

Spring (March–May)

Start or restart your pile. Add fresh grass clippings and kitchen scraps. Turn frequently. Use compost to enrich garden beds before planting.

Summer (June–August)

Monitor moisture—dry spells are common. Water pile weekly. Add more browns if pile becomes too wet from rain. Harvest first batch if ready.

Fall (September–November)

Peak season for composting! Collect fallen leaves—your best carbon source. Shred them with a lawn mower for faster breakdown. Layer with kitchen waste. Build large piles for winter.

Winter (December–February)

Focus on insulation and minimal inputs. Store browns. Add only small amounts of coffee grounds or eggshells. Avoid adding large volumes of food waste.

Compost Use in Pennsylvania Gardens

Compost is a game-changer for Pennsylvania’s diverse soils. From the sandy loam of the Delaware Valley to the clay-heavy soils of Pittsburgh, compost improves structure, water retention, and nutrient availability.

For vegetable gardens: Mix 2–3 inches into planting beds before seeding. Use as mulch between rows to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

For lawns: Apply a thin layer (¼ inch) as top-dressing in early spring or fall. Aerating before application improves absorption.

For trees and shrubs: Spread 2–4 inches around the drip line, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot.

For container plants: Blend 30% compost with 70% potting mix for nutrient-rich soil that doesn’t compact.

Tools and Resources

Essential Tools for Pennsylvania Composters

• Compost bin or tumbler: Choose based on space and climate needs.
• Pitchfork or compost aerator: For turning piles efficiently.
• Compost thermometer: Helps monitor internal temperature (optional but helpful).
• Shredder or lawnmower: To break down leaves and cardboard faster.
• Watering can or hose with spray nozzle: For moisture control.
• Storage bins or bags: For collecting and storing browns (especially leaves) in fall.
• Screen or sifter: To remove large chunks from finished compost.

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Pennsylvania

Many Pennsylvania counties and municipalities offer composting education and support:

• Penn State Extension: Offers free guides, workshops, and soil testing. Visit extension.psu.edu for regional composting tips.
• Philadelphia Water Department: Provides discounted compost bins and free workshops for residents.
• Allegheny County (Pittsburgh): Offers composting classes and free drop-off locations for yard waste.
• Lehigh Valley Composting Cooperative: Hosts community composting events and offers worm bin kits.
• PA DEP Recycling Programs: Many counties run “Compost Giveback” programs where residents can exchange yard waste for finished compost.

Recommended Reading and Apps

• The Compost Bible by Diana Balmori
• Let It Rot! by Stu Campbell
• App: “CompostNow” – Find local compost collection services (available in PA cities)
• App: “MyCompost” – Tracks your pile’s progress and reminds you to turn it

Where to Buy Supplies

Local garden centers like Tractor Supply, Home Depot, and independent nurseries in Pennsylvania carry compost bins and tools. For worm composting supplies, order from reputable vendors like Uncle Jim’s Worm Farm or Vermicrop. Avoid cheap, flimsy bins from big-box stores—they often crack in winter.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: Urban Composter in Philadelphia

Marisol, a resident of West Philadelphia, lives in a row home with a 10-foot-wide backyard. She started with a 30-gallon tumbler in spring 2022. She collected coffee grounds from her local café and saved shredded office paper from her job. She layered greens with dried leaves from neighbors’ yards. Within 8 weeks, she harvested compost and used it to grow tomatoes, peppers, and herbs in containers. Her compost bin sits on a concrete pad near her back door. She covers it with a tarp during rainstorms and adds a handful of garden soil every time she adds food scraps. She reports no pests, no odor, and now shares compost with three other households.

Case Study 2: Rural Composter in Lancaster County

David and Karen, retired farmers in Lancaster, use a 10-foot-long open pile on their 5-acre property. They add all kitchen scraps, manure from their chickens (never dog or cat), and straw from their horse’s stall. They turn the pile monthly and cover it with a tarp in winter. Their pile heats to 150°F in summer. They use the compost to fertilize their 20 raised garden beds and apple orchard. They’ve reduced their fertilizer purchases by 80% and report healthier soil and fewer plant diseases.

Case Study 3: Apartment Composter in State College

Alex, a Penn State student, lives in a dorm with no outdoor space. He started a worm bin under his sink using a stackable plastic container. He feeds the worms coffee grounds, fruit peels, and tea bags—never citrus or onions. He keeps the bin at 65°F and harvests liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. He uses the “worm tea” to water his houseplants and gives solid castings to his roommate’s potted herbs. He says it’s easier than he expected and has inspired his entire floor to compost.

Case Study 4: Community Compost in Pittsburgh

The East End Community Garden in Pittsburgh launched a shared composting program in 2021. Ten families contribute food scraps to a single 400-gallon bin managed by volunteers. The bin is turned weekly and covered with a tarp. Finished compost is distributed among participants. The program has diverted over 3 tons of waste from landfills in two years and has become a hub for environmental education.

FAQs

Can I compost in Pennsylvania during winter?

Yes. While decomposition slows in freezing temperatures, your compost pile won’t die. Insulate it with straw or a tarp, add more browns than greens, and avoid overloading with wet food scraps. Microbes remain active just below the surface and will revive in spring.

Do I need a special bin, or can I just make a pile?

You can compost with just a pile, but a bin helps control pests, retain heat, and keep things tidy. In urban or suburban areas, a bin is often preferred by neighbors and local ordinances. For rural properties, an open pile works well if managed properly.

My compost smells bad. What’s wrong?

A foul odor usually means too many greens, not enough browns, or poor aeration. Add shredded paper, dry leaves, or cardboard, and turn the pile. Avoid meat, dairy, and oils. If it smells like ammonia, you have too much nitrogen—add more carbon.

Can I compost pet waste?

No. Dog, cat, or bird waste can contain harmful pathogens that survive composting and can contaminate soil. Never add pet waste to your backyard compost pile.

How long does it take to make compost in Pennsylvania?

With regular turning and ideal conditions, compost can be ready in 2–3 months during warm weather. In winter or with minimal maintenance, it may take 6–12 months. Tumblers can produce compost in as little as 4–6 weeks.

Can I compost citrus peels and onions?

Yes, but in moderation. Citrus and onions are acidic and can slow microbial activity if added in large amounts. Chop them finely and mix them well with browns. Avoid adding large quantities at once.

Is it legal to compost in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Composting is encouraged by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Some municipalities have rules about bin placement or odor control, but backyard composting is legal statewide.

What should I do with leaves in the fall?

Collect and shred them. Leaves are one of the best carbon sources for compost. Store them in bags or a dry shed for winter use. You can also mulch them with a lawnmower and leave them on your lawn—they break down and feed the soil.

Can I use compost on my lawn?

Absolutely. Top-dressing your lawn with ¼ inch of compost in early spring or fall improves soil structure, reduces thatch, and enhances grass growth. Aerating first helps the compost penetrate deeper.

How do I know when compost is ready?

Finished compost is dark brown, crumbly, and smells like fresh earth. You shouldn’t be able to recognize original materials (like banana peels or leaves). If it’s still warm or has a sour smell, it needs more time.

Conclusion

Starting a composting system in your Pennsylvania backyard is more than a gardening task—it’s a meaningful step toward environmental stewardship. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet countryside, composting allows you to reclaim organic waste, reduce landfill dependence, and nurture healthier soil with zero cost after the initial setup.

The key to success lies in understanding Pennsylvania’s seasonal rhythms, choosing the right method for your space, and maintaining a balanced mix of greens and browns. With minimal effort and a little attention, your kitchen scraps and yard waste can transform into black gold that supports thriving plants and a cleaner planet.

As climate concerns grow and communities seek sustainable solutions, backyard composting stands out as one of the most accessible, effective, and rewarding actions a homeowner can take. Start small, learn as you go, and don’t be discouraged by slow progress—especially in winter. Every handful of compost you produce is a victory for your garden and the Earth.

By composting, you’re not just reducing waste—you’re rebuilding the soil, one layer at a time.