Help & Support

Frequently Asked Questions:

COMPOSTING

Q) What is compost?

A) Compost is a mixture of decaying organic matter, such as grass, tree and shrub trimmings, and leaves. It is useful as a soil amendment material (instead of peat moss) and as mulch.

Q) How does compost work?

A) By composting, you are creating conditions which speed up the natural process of decomposition. It's easy because the real work is done by soil organisms, bacteria, mold, fungi, beetles, centipedes, and earthworms, to name a few. These "helpers" decompose complex organic compounds into simpler substances, making a rich, organic soil-like material called humus.

Q) How does DSWA compost?

A) Once yard waste is collected from residents it is brought to one of DSWA’s landfills for recycling.  Both the Cherry Island Landfill in Wilmington and Jones Crossroads Landfill in Georgetown will be using a system developed by the Delaware based, W.L Gore & Associates. This system uses GORE-TEX membrane, laminated between two highly robust polyester layers and uses three components: aeration, control, and tarpaulin. Balanced together the three components interact to produce a unique, economical, and reliable composting system. 

Q) Will the compost DSWA is creating be available for sale?

A) The Jones Crossroads landfill will be selling compost and mulch at its facility.  Screened Compost will cost $15 per yard or bucket and screen mulch will cost $12 per yard or bucket.  Please contact the Citizens’ Response Line for more information on the sale of compost and mulch. 

Q) What types of things go into a compost pile?

A) This chart may help in deciding what material to put in your compost pile

Q) I’d like to compost at my home, where can I purchase a compost bin?

A) DSWA has a round compost bin available for $10. Call the Citizens’ Response Line for more information on how to purchase a bin.  Some retailers also carry a line of compost bins for the home.

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