Let me ask you this—do you garden?
Maybe you’re growing herbs on your windowsill, tending to tomatoes in the backyard, or simply trying to keep your front yard looking fresh and healthy. Or maybe you’re just someone who cares about the environment and wants to give back to the earth. Either way, I’ve got some great news for you.
This year, the NYC Department of Sanitation is bringing back its Bagged Compost Pick-Up Program, and yes, it’s happening right here in Queens again in 2025. This is the kind of local initiative I love sharing with you—practical, free, and good for our neighborhoods.
So, What Is This Compost Pick-Up Program?
It’s pretty simple: NYC takes all the food scraps, yard waste, and food-soiled paper they collect from residents like you and me, and turns it into high-quality compost. Then, from April 23 to September 27, they give it back—for free.
I know, it sounds too good to be true. But this is the real deal. It’s part of the city’s effort to make sustainability more accessible, and honestly, it’s a win for everyone.
When and Where?
All of this happens at the Queens Compost Giveback Site at Luyster Creek in Astoria, located at:
- 77-28 19th Avenue, Queens
- Wednesdays: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
But here’s the catch: you need to register in advance, and registration opens two weeks before each event. That means planning ahead!
👉 You can register here: Register for Compost Pick-Up
How Much Can You Get?
Each registered NYC resident is eligible to take home up to ten 40-pound bags of compost. That’s a lot of goodness for your backyard or community garden!
What Should You Bring?
Let’s make sure you come prepared:
- One ticket per person – if you’re carpooling with friends or family, each person must have their own ticket and ID.
- Bring your ID – and make sure it shows a distinct NYC address.
- Be on time – don’t arrive before the official start time.
- Be ready to load – you’ll need to lift and load the compost bags into your own vehicle.
One more thing—this program is strictly for residential use. Commercial vehicles and businesses are not allowed to participate.
Why should this matter to you—even if you’re not a gardener?
You might be thinking, “I’m not a gardener—why would I need compost?”
Here’s the thing: even if you don’t garden, this program is a reminder of how we’re all connected. The city takes what we give, transforms it, and offers it back. It’s part of creating a cleaner, greener Queens together.
And if you do have a little green space at home, or you care for your block’s tree bed, this compost is a goldmine. It enriches soil, retains moisture, and helps plants thrive without chemical fertilizers.
Let’s Keep Queens Growing
Whether you’re planting tomatoes or just planting roots in Queens, I’m here for you. I live here, I work here, and I care about making life in Queens better—not just by helping people find homes, but by sharing resources that help you make the most of your home, too.
So if you ever have questions about the neighborhood, upcoming events, or the real estate market, just reach out. I’m always happy to talk—whether it’s about compost, curb appeal, or buying your first home.