Wentzville Trash & Recycling Guide - The City of Wentzville | Missouri

Build a Better Yard:
Yard Waste Collection Alternatives
Yard waste is primarily composed of lawn clippings, leaves, and small
brush. These items can be very beneficial to yards if they are “composted”
properly. Large composting facilities “grind and turn” these materials in a
way that allows natural biological actions to breakdown the grass, leaves,
and brush into a very beneficial soil amendment.
Compost adds organic matter to the soil; reduces the need for fertilizer, and
increases water-holding ability during dry spells. Master Gardeners pay
premium prices for good compost because they recognize the value it adds
to their gardens.
Create the same benefits on a smaller scale in your yard:
Cut it high and let it lie!
Grass clippings contain many of the same ingredients as fertilizer. By
allowing your grass to grow slightly higher and cutting it slightly more
often, you can fertilize your grass every time you mow
(the highest setting is preferred). A mulching
lawnmower is very efficient at this chore. Grass
decomposes quickly and passes nutrients into the soil
and roots of the existing grass. The same is true of
leaves. In small quantities leaves can be mulched and
left on the yard to provide the same benefits.
Backyard Composting
All organic waste decomposes over time. Simple containers or open
piles for yard waste are the least labor and time-consuming ways to
compost. As weeds, grass clippings, and leaves are collected they can
be added to the container or pile. Turning the pile occasionally will
speed the decomposition process. Composting bins can be purchased
or built to speed up the process and make your compost area more
attractive. Find a compost recipe at www.scchealth.org/es
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