County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works

Currently, at most of our workshops, Los Angeles County residents can purchase a backyard composting bin and a worm composting bin at discounted prices. CASH ONLY, no checks or credit cards. Limit of 2 bins (of each kind) per household. Supplies subject to availability. If supplies run out, other purchasing arrangements will be made. For more information, please call our toll free hotline at 1(888)CLEAN LA.

The composting worms available through the County of Los Angeles Smart Gardening Program are African Red Worms (Eisenia fetida). These worms are commonly called Red Wigglers, and are the most common type of composting worm. They can process large amounts of organic matter (up to half of their body weight per day). They also reproduce rapidly, and are very tolerant of variations in growing conditions. Nature's soil aerators, worms will improve and condition the soil as they burrow in search of food. Composting worms excrete a very valuable natural fertilizer (called castings), which contain 5 times the available nitrogen, 7 times the available phosphorus, 3 times the exchangeable magnesium, 11 times the available potash, and 1.5 times the calcium as are normally found in 6 inches of top soil. Other names for Red wigglers include Tiger worms, Garlic worms, Manure worms, and Brandling worms.

Backyard Compost Bin

Backyard composting bins are availble at specified workshops only. $40.00 each. Limit two bins per household. Cash only. Price is subject to change.

Worm Bin

Worm composting bins are availble at specified workshops only. $65.00 each plus 1/2 lb of free worms. Limit two bins per household. Cash only. Price is subject to change.