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Can citrus peels go in backyard compost #859065

Asked February 13, 2024, 12:51 PM EST

Can citrus peels go in backyard compost? The compost bin we have is for kitchen scraps (excluding meat and dairy) and would ideally be used as compost for a garden. A coworker recently told me citrus peels should not go in compost due to acidity but I'm seeing conflicting info about that claim online.

Chisago County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for writing.
Citrus peels are fine for backyard composting. Their effect on soil or compost acidity would be negligible. 
https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home
Steve Miles, Master Gardener, Hennepin County, (I am a volunteer human being: not a bot, not AI). I'm an avid gardener but not a degreed or certified horticulturist or arborist. I will do much better if you also send a photograph. I like follow-up questions.  The University' garden soil tests are excellent.  https://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden This is how to find a tree expert.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional  A Directory of ISA certified arborists is at https://certificates.directory.isa-arbor.com/  The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a wonderful place to see and learn about plants that grow in Minnesota. https://mngardens.horticulture.umn.edu/minnesota-landscape-arboretum  Ask a Master Gardener is a public service of the University of MInnesota's Extension Division.  Please donate if we make you happy.  https://give.umn.edu/gardener Replied February 13, 2024, 4:55 PM EST

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