Composting 101 – May 22, 2026


Friday, May 22, 2026
2 pm–3:30 pm
$15 for Members/$20 for Non-Members

According to the USDA between 30–40% of all food in the united states is wasted, and ¾ of all waste in landfills is biodegradable.
 
This beginner’s class on composting will cover: how it works, why it’s important, what pitfalls to avoid, and how to start your own system. Composting is a forgiving art as long as you are paying attention to your pile and know what signs to look for. Instructor Justinian Dispenza will dive into the process as well as different ways to implement composting where you live, no matter where that is.
 

This program is part of the Ecological Landscaping Speaker Series & Native Garden Tours. Advance registration is required. 

Ecological Landscaping Speaker Series & Native Garden Tours

In 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, Adkins Arboretum received funding from the Chesapeake Bay Trust (CBT) to provide outreach and education to local Homeowner Associations (HOAs) and the general public, supporting environmentally friendly landscaping practices. 

This series was developed by building on the Naturally Better Landscaping project, in partnership with ShoreRivers, Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, Pickering Creek, Phillips Wharf, and Wild Ones. It is offered free of charge thanks to funding from CBT and Queen Anne’s County, and open to the general public.

Meet Your Instructor

Justinian Dispenza is an award winning environmental film maker, avid gardener, and founder of the Eastern Shore Permaculture Institute. Originally his 'Covid lockdown' project, it has blossomed into a growing community of sustainability focused people working to build a greener future on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and beyond.