FAQ
At Root & Sol, we believe in the power of circularity—where every bit of local food waste is transformed into rich compost that nourishes our soil and grows healthier food right here in Indianapolis. By bringing together local restaurants, grocers, schools, businesses, and residents, we’re building a community-wide effort where everyone plays a part in reducing waste, improving our environment, and supporting one another.
Still have questions? If you don't find your answers below, reach out to us - we love to talk dirt!
Root & Sol Community Composting FAQs
1.. What is compost?
Compost is nature’s way of recycling! It’s made from food scraps and yard waste, broken down by tiny helpers like worms and microbes. The result is “black gold”—rich, earthy material that goes back into our local soil, making our gardens, parks, and farms healthier and more productive
2. Why should I compost?
When our community composts together, we keep valuable nutrients out of landfills and put them back into our soil. This means cleaner air and water, less waste, and more nutritious food grown right here in our neighborhoods. Plus, composting supports local jobs and businesses, and helps make Indy a greener, more vibrant place to live. Let’s work together for a healthier, stronger community!
3. What can I compost?
If it’s natural, it’s probably compostable! We accept most food scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, yard clippings, and more—from homes, restaurants, schools, and offices. Check our full list or ask us if you’re unsure. (link to full list)
4. What size buckets are available?
Residents get sturdy 5–7 gallon buckets with lids. For our commercial partners—restaurants, grocers, schools, and offices—we provide 64-gallon rolling bins with lids.
5. Can I use my own bin or bucket?
To keep things tidy and pest-free, we use our own color-coded bins for everyone.
6. Do I have to use your compostable bag liners?
Only if you’re transferring waste from inside to outside. If you use your own liners, make sure they’re BPI-certified or meet U.S. Composting Council standards. Need bags? We’re happy to help—order from us anytime!
7. How often do you pick up?
Residential pickups are once a week, right alongside our business routes. Commercial pickups are twice a week—Monday/Thursday or Tuesday/Friday.
8. What happens to the waste once it’s picked up?
Your compostable waste is turned into rich soil for local organic farms, urban and home gardens, schools, and community projects—helping neighbors grow fresh, healthy food.
We also offer premium compost blends for growers with specific crop needs.
9. Can I get some compost back?
Absolutely! We offer 40 pound bags of compost for home gardeners as well as bulk compost by the yard for delivery—perfect for gardens, landscaping, or community projects. And we love to work with organic farmers to provide high-quality, LOCAL compost in larger quantities. Contact us for details.
10. How do I sign up?
Joining Root & Sol is easy! Just click here to visit our sign-up page and become part of our growing community.
11. How much is curbside pickup?
Residential and commercial rates vary—click here for details.
12. How do I pay?
We accept credit cards and online payments for your convenience. We can also invoice for large bulk orders.
13. What areas do you serve?
Look here to see if you're currently in our service area, but we’re growing quickly so if you are not currently in our area, leave us your contact information - we'll be in your neighborhood soon!
14. What are your terms of agreement?
We ask for a one-year agreement, with easy renewal unless you let us know of cancellation 60 days in advance. We offer discounts for single annual payments and on compost for our customers in the spring.
15. Why pay for composting and trash service?
Indiana is known for its large landfills, with waste from other states piling up here. By composting, you help reduce landfill waste, lower your waste costs, and build a more sustainable, resilient local community.
