Compost or Not

Can I Compost Prunings?

Yes

Prunings can be composted.

What to Know

  • Prunings from trees and shrubs can be composted, but they break down slowly
  • Woody materials are considered 'brown' or carbon-rich components in compost
  • They help provide structure and aeration to your compost pile

Tips

  • Chop or shred prunings into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition
  • Mix with 'green' materials like grass clippings for balanced compost
  • Avoid composting prunings from diseased plants or those treated with pesticides
  • For very woody prunings, consider using them as mulch instead