Yard Waste Reduction

Yard waste and food waste (organics) amount to almost 50% of the trash Torrance residents dispose of each year. Most of these materials could be turned into a valuable soil amendment or mulch by composting in your own backyard.

Free Workshops

Come and learn about ways to reduce and recycle your yard waste by:

• Composting: The natural way to mulch and replenish the soil using yard waste and kitchen scraps
• Grasscycling: Leave your clippings on the lawn and add water and nitrogen to your soil.
• Worm Composting: Make great compost using your kitchen scraps.
• Water-wise gardening: Reduce water use and yard trimmings by planting drought-tolerant and low maintenance plants.

Beginning workshops are for those interested in learning about backyard composting, worm composting, grass recycling, water-wise gardening, and fire-wise gardening. Advanced workshops are for those interested in learning about organic gardening, good soil, and environmentally responsible ways to control pests, conserving water in the garden, and using native and drought-tolerant plants.

Workshops are on Saturdays starting promptly at 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

• Schedule of all composting workshops sponsored by L.A. County.

Compost Bins

Torrance residents can also purchase:

• Earth Machine Compost Bin for $80
• Worm composting bin for $50 (OUT OF STOCK)

All are made from recycled plastic, come with instructions, and are available through the Public Works Department. Please call ahead at 310-781-6900 to make an appointment. The Worm bin and Soil Saver Composting Bin are  also available at the Manager's Booth of the Torrance Farmer's Market. You must be a Torrance resident to purchase these bins. Check or cash only, no credit cards accepted.

For instructions, suppliers, and other composting information try Los Angeles County Smart Gardening or CalRecycle

 Need Mulch?

You can get it free (just bring your own shovel and bucket)! Load up your own containers and take as much as you need, available at:

Bark chips from City trees
Lago Seco Park 
3920 235th Street
Torrance

Located south of Community Gardens near parking lot Open during park hours, but material availability varies.

For additional information, please visit the Environmentally Friendly Landscaping, Gardening and Pest Control website 

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