Compost or Not

Can I Compost Houseplants?

Yes

Houseplants can be composted.

What to Know

  • Houseplants are generally safe to compost
  • They provide green material rich in nitrogen
  • Remove any non-organic decorations, like plastic pots or foam, before composting
  • Avoid composting houseplants treated with pesticides or chemical fertilizers

Tips

  • Chop or shred larger stems and roots to speed up decomposition
  • Mix with brown materials like dried leaves or cardboard for a balanced compost
  • If the plant was diseased, it's best to dispose of it elsewhere to prevent spreading pathogens in your compost pile