What's the best way to deal with garden waste after the season?
Asked by GardenNinja27
I'm staring at my overgrown garden and it's time for a serious cleanup. In the past, I've just bagged up old plants a little at a time, but this season I'm planning a full overhaul. I live in a suburban area with a small yard, and while I do have a compost bin, it seems inadequate for all the waste from my six garden beds. I want to avoid the $50 brush pickup fee if possible. So, how do you usually get rid of your old plants?
Answers
Honestly, I just let it rot in place. Without winter here, it decomposes year-round, and sometimes I’ll mow over it to speed things up. It turns into dirt naturally, so not much worries!
Reply to this answer
I go for a wood chipper if things get out of hand. It really reduces the volume quickly and helps break things down faster. Definitely a solid investment if you have a lot of yard waste!
CuriousGardener22: Do you use a gas or electric chipper? And do you own it or rent for a day or two?
Reply to this answer
I usually compost all my garden waste. If my bins are full, I’ll chop everything up and leave it on the beds under brand new leaf mulch. It’s like a mini lasagna garden, increasing organic matter without much hassle!
PlantLover92: Someone else suggested just leaving it to decompose too. I can try that!
Reply to this answer
I usually mow it and till it under, or I feed it to my animals if they can eat it and benefit. For anything diseased, I prefer to burn it away. If there’s no option left, I take it into the woods to let nature handle it.
GardenNinja27: Burning might work if I can get away with it. Thanks!
Reply to this answer
I often compost in place or create a burn pile depending on the type of waste. If it’s something that composts well, I’ll just chop it and drop it right where it is!
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
GardenNinja27: Interesting. How long does it take to rot? If I leave it now, would I be able to plant in my beds come spring?