Free Compost, Mulch for Baltimore County Residents

With unseasonably warm weather here, gardeners are no doubt beginning to think about preparing their yards for spring and summer.

With the economy still struggling and gas prices headed to record highs just in time for summer travel, Baltimore County has compost and mulch available to county residents for just the right price — free.

The Baltimore County Bureau of Solid Waste Management has mulch and compost available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Eastern Sanitary Landfill, 6259 Days Cove Road in White Marsh, according to a press release from the county.

Attendants are not available to assist with loading the products; residents must bring their own containers and shovels to load the mulch.

Mulch consists of woody chipped material and can be used as a top covering around trees and bushes, according to the statement.

Compost results from the decomposition of grass, leaves and small brush materials, and serves as a soil amendment to provide nutrients and enrichment to plants.

The quality of the mulch and compost may vary, and the county offers no warranties regarding usage of these materials, according to the statement.

The landfill facility is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Because of the popularity of the products and the limited availability, residents are encouraged to call the landfill in advance to make sure that supplies are still available.

For product availability and directions, call 410-887-2000.