DOWNEY - Residents are invited to learn about backyard composting at a "go green and grow green" gardening workshop June 12 at Wilderness Park.Participants will learn about backyard composts, worm composting, grass recycling and fire-wise gardening techniques. Compost and worm bins will be available for purchase at a reduced price of $40 for compost bins and $65 for worm bins (cash or check only). The workshop will take place from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. The seminar is free but there is a $2 parking fee at Wilderness Park after 9 a.m. The event is hosted by Downey's Recycling Office and presented by Los Angeles County's Department of Public Works. For more information, call the city at (562) 904-7103. Composting is the natural process of decomposition and recycling of organic material into a rich soil amendment known as compost. Backyard composting reduces personal trash volume, conserves water, increases plant growth, and replaces the need for harsh chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. It's also fun, city officials said.

********** Published: June 4, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 7