Transform your food and garden waste

Composting is a natural process that turns your food and garden waste into soil improver for your garden. By composting at home, you can reduce the amount of waste needed to be processed elsewhere.

Here are some ideas, such as how to save money on a compost bin, how to get a free online course, benefits of composting and how to get started.

Illustration of person raking leaves for their compost heap

Get started with home composting

Composting your food and garden waste is a great way to improve the soil in your garden, support wildlife, and save you money.

Composting at home is quick to set up and easier than you may think. The process is simple, but it's important to get the basics right from the start to ensure you get the best from your home compost bin.

To help you get started, we offer subsidised compost bins to Essex residents.

Buy a reduced price compost bin

Free online composting training

If you’re new to composting, or want to discover more successful techniques, you might like our free online course.

Hands holding compost with a trowel and pot.

Find out about the benefits of composting at home and how to get started with this free course from Garden Organic.

The course has five modules that you can select, from basics to in depth knowledge, including videos and quizzes. Each section lasts 10 to 20 minutes.

Please use the Guest Access with the password: LoveEssexCompost

Login to the free online course