NOW is the perfect time to spring clean your garden. Get in and remove the weeds, old growth, and trim back bushes and overgrown shrubs. This work now ensures your garden will come into its full potential during summer.

Wollongong City Council Promotions Coordinator, Environment and Conservation Services, Fiona Netting said placing garden waste in a compost will allow it to break down and produce organic matter to use on your garden.

“The finished compost helps to deter pests, retain moisture in your soil, and revitalise your soil,” Ms Netting said.

“This compost then gives you healthier plants and shrubs and will lead to more flowers and vegetables.”

Council’s waste education team will answer questions on garden waste and give ideas towards Waste Wise Living at the Leisure Coast Garden Centre, Fairy Meadow on Wednesday November 14, 9.30am – 5pm or Wollongong Mall Markets on Friday November 16, 9am – 3pm.

As part of National Recycling Week Council is asking households to book in to either the Introduction to Composting  workshop in order to receive a free compost bin or worm farm on Wednesday December 5 from 5.30pm – 6.30pm, or Introduction to Worm farming + Other Reuse Ideas for Food & Garden Waste on Saturday December 8 from 10am to midday. Both workshops will be held at at Greenhouse Park, Springhill Road, Wollongong.

Reservations for both courses are essential: Phone Council’s Green Team on (02) 4227 7262 or email gt@wollongong.nsw.gov.au.