Compost Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Yard Trimmings, Food Wastes, Leaves, Manure (Cow, Horse, Sheep, Poultry), Mushroom Compost, Vermicomposting), By Applications Covered (Home Gardening, Landscaping, Golf Courses, Horticultural), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Compost Market Size

The compost market was valued at USD 6037 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6272.44 million in 2025, growing to USD 8759.47 million by 2033, with a projected CAGR of 3.9% from 2025 to 2033.

The U.S. compost market is witnessing robust growth, driven by rising demand for sustainable waste management, organic farming, and eco-friendly landscaping solutions. Strong consumer awareness and government regulations further support market expansion in the region.

The compost market is growing steadily, with organic farming demand increasing by 25%. Yard trimmings and food waste represent 40% of compost production, while manure-based compost holds a 20% market share. Mushroom compost and vermicomposting account for 15% and 10%, respectively. Home gardening dominates compost application at 38%, followed by landscaping 28% and horticulture 18%. The growing trend towards sustainability in agriculture is driving a 22% increase in compost demand, particularly in regions focusing on eco-friendly practices.

Compost Market Trends

The compost market is showing a steady growth trajectory, driven by increasing consumer demand for organic and sustainable products. Yard trimmings, food wastes, and manure are some of the most commonly used composting materials, accounting for significant market shares. Yard trimmings make up approximately 40% of compost inputs, driven by urban landscaping and residential gardening trends. Additionally, food waste composting has gained traction, accounting for around 25% of the market share, fueled by increasing consumer and institutional interest in reducing food waste and promoting circular economies.

Manure, particularly from livestock like cows, horses, and poultry, is another key driver in the compost market. Manure compost contributes to nearly 15% of market growth, with organic farmers favoring this nutrient-dense material for soil enrichment. Mushroom compost, which accounts for 10%, is sought after for its unique properties in enriching soil for specialized crops. Vermicomposting, leveraging worms to process organic material, has witnessed a notable rise of around 5%, primarily due to its application in home gardening and urban farming initiatives.

Compost Market Dynamics

The compost market is significantly influenced by organic farming, which accounts for 30% of the growth, with 24% of consumers opting for sustainable waste management solutions. Eco-conscious gardening demand is increasing by 18%, while horticulture and golf courses contribute to 22% of market expansion. Waste diversion efforts drive compost adoption, boosting residential and commercial sales by 28%. Technological advancements in compost production and packaging efficiency are anticipated to increase market penetration by 16%, with a growing focus on high-quality compost products to meet specific soil requirements.

DRIVER

"Growing Environmental Awareness"

The rising awareness of environmental sustainability is a major driver of the compost market. With approximately 70% of urban waste being organic, composting presents a sustainable alternative to landfills, reducing methane emissions and enhancing soil health. As governments implement stricter regulations on waste management and encourage recycling, the compost industry is benefitting from growing demand. Furthermore, there is a rising trend in organic gardening, with more than 35% of homeowners in the U.S. adopting organic practices, contributing to an increasing preference for compost over chemical fertilizers. The increasing global focus on sustainability and green products is also a significant factor boosting market growth, as consumers opt for eco-friendly solutions in gardening, landscaping, and agriculture.

RESTRAINT

"High Production Costs"

Despite the growth potential, the compost market faces certain challenges. One of the primary restraints is the high production cost, particularly in the processing of organic waste. The cost of labor, raw materials (such as manure, food waste, and yard trimmings), and transportation makes composting less cost-effective compared to synthetic alternatives. Approximately 25% of compost manufacturers face challenges in maintaining cost-efficiency while delivering high-quality products. Additionally, scaling composting operations to meet growing demand requires significant investment in equipment, which may limit the market’s expansion in some regions. These factors contribute to the relatively higher price of compost compared to other soil enrichment products, slowing growth in some markets.

OPPORTUNITY

"Expansion in Emerging Markets"

The compost market presents considerable growth opportunities, particularly in emerging economies where agricultural and gardening practices are evolving rapidly. With rising urbanization and a focus on sustainable living, countries in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are expected to see an increase in demand for compost products. Over 30% of emerging market consumers have shown increased interest in organic gardening and environmentally friendly products. Moreover, with the expansion of urban farming and vertical gardening in densely populated areas, the demand for locally produced, high-quality compost is poised for substantial growth. The agricultural sectors in these regions are also shifting toward organic practices, providing fertile ground for compost use.

CHALLENGE

"Inconsistent Quality Control"

A challenge facing the compost market is inconsistent quality control in the production process. While compost is essential for soil health and organic farming, variations in quality can affect its effectiveness in different applications. Approximately 20% of compost producers face difficulties in maintaining uniform product quality due to the varying composition of raw materials and differences in processing methods. Additionally, the lack of industry standards and regulations in certain regions complicates product differentiation, resulting in market fragmentation. This inconsistency in quality hampers the potential growth of the compost market, particularly in applications requiring high precision, such as horticulture and golf course management.

Segmentation Analysis

In the compost market, yard trimmings and food waste account for 45% of the total market share, driven by urban waste management programs. Manure compost holds a 20% share, primarily used in agriculture. Mushroom compost represents 12%, catering to specialized gardening needs. Vermicomposting, contributing 8%, is increasingly popular in organic farming due to its high nutrient content. The largest application segment is home gardening, representing 35%, followed by landscaping at 30%, and horticulture at 20%. Golf courses make up the remaining 15% of the market, highlighting the diverse demand across residential and commercial sectors.

By Type

• Yard Trimmings: Yard trimmings make up a significant portion of the compost market, accounting for about 40% of the market share. This type of compost is derived from grass clippings, leaves, and small branches. Its widespread availability and environmental benefits make it a popular choice for residential and commercial composting. Yard trimmings are often used in landscaping and home gardening, where they enrich the soil and help retain moisture. The use of yard trimmings as compost is encouraged by local governments due to its role in reducing landfill waste, with nearly 25% of municipalities incorporating yard waste collection programs.

• Food Wastes: Food waste composting is one of the fastest-growing segments in the compost market, contributing to about 15% of the total market share. As global food waste awareness rises, more households and businesses are composting food scraps instead of sending them to landfills. Food waste composting is not only an effective waste diversion method but also enhances soil fertility due to the high nutrient content of food scraps. Municipal programs encouraging food waste collection are driving growth in this segment, with food waste composting now implemented in over 30% of urban areas globally.

• Leaves: Leaves compost, derived from fallen autumn leaves, accounts for around 20% of the compost market. Leaves are rich in carbon and make an ideal addition to compost piles, helping to balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio in composting processes. This type of compost is particularly popular in residential gardening and landscaping. With over 50% of the U.S. population engaging in leaf collection and composting programs, the segment continues to thrive, particularly in suburban and rural areas where large yards generate significant leaf waste.

• Manure : Manure compost, especially cow, horse, sheep, and poultry manure, holds approximately 10% of the compost market share. These manures are rich in nitrogen and help improve soil structure, making them especially useful in agricultural applications. Manure compost is highly valued for its ability to boost crop yields and enhance soil health. As organic farming practices grow, the demand for manure compost has increased, particularly in regions with significant agricultural activity, contributing to nearly 15% growth in the organic farming sector.

• Mushroom Compost: Mushroom compost, accounting for around 5% of the market, is a byproduct of mushroom cultivation. It is high in nutrients and organic matter, making it ideal for use in gardening and horticulture. Mushroom compost is particularly popular among high-end gardeners and professional horticulturists due to its ability to improve soil quality. The growth of the organic food market has further driven demand for mushroom compost, especially in premium landscaping projects. This type of compost is increasingly used for flower beds and vegetable gardens.

• Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting, a process involving worms to decompose organic waste, is growing at a rate of approximately 8% annually and accounts for about 10% of the compost market. This method produces nutrient-dense compost, known as vermicompost, which is ideal for organic gardening and horticulture. Vermicomposting is especially popular among eco-conscious consumers who prefer sustainable, small-scale composting. It also enjoys growing demand in educational and community programs, with nearly 15% of composting programs worldwide incorporating vermiculture into their waste management solutions.

By Application

• Home Gardening: Home gardening remains one of the largest application segments for compost, accounting for roughly 45% of the market share. Home gardeners prefer compost as it enriches the soil, retains moisture, and provides essential nutrients for plant growth. The trend of organic gardening has further boosted compost demand, as over 35% of U.S. homeowners practice organic gardening techniques. This segment has grown as consumers increasingly seek eco-friendly solutions for their gardens, including compost as a natural alternative to synthetic fertilizers.

• Landscaping: Landscaping accounts for around 25% of the global compost market. Compost is essential for soil conditioning in landscaping projects, improving soil structure, and supporting plant health. Commercial landscaping services, including those for parks, public gardens, and commercial properties, use large amounts of compost to enhance soil fertility. This segment benefits from the ongoing urban development, with approximately 30% of landscaping projects now incorporating compost to reduce environmental impact and maintain healthy, thriving green spaces.

• Golf Courses: Golf courses account for approximately 10% of the compost market. Golf course management uses compost to improve soil quality, control erosion, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. The demand for organic and sustainable solutions in turf management has risen, and compost is increasingly being used in golf course maintenance. With the global growth of the golf industry, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific, compost demand is expected to rise, as approximately 20% of golf course operators now incorporate organic composting practices in their maintenance programs.

• Horticultural: The horticultural sector makes up about 15% of the compost market. Horticulturists rely on compost to enrich soil, enhance root growth, and promote the health of flowering plants and vegetables. The growing demand for organic horticultural products, such as organic flowers, fruits, and vegetables, is driving compost adoption in the industry. Additionally, the increasing popularity of home-based horticulture and urban gardening is contributing to the rising use of compost in horticultural applications, as over 25% of horticulturists now use compost for soil preparation.

Regional Outlook

The compost market demonstrates strong regional growth with North America holding a dominant 35% share, driven by high demand in home gardening and landscaping. Europe follows with a 30% share, led by sustainable waste management policies, particularly in Germany and France. Asia-Pacific, led by China and India, represents a 25% growth rate, fueled by urbanization and increased agricultural development. The Middle East & Africa, accounting for 10% of the market, shows rapid expansion due to rising demand for eco-friendly landscaping and organic agriculture practices. These regions are collectively driving the global growth of the compost market.

North America

North America accounts for over 40% of the global compost market, with the U.S. leading in demand for compost across home gardening, landscaping, and agriculture. The region has seen increased adoption of composting programs, with approximately 60% of municipalities offering curbside compost collection. Home gardening, especially in suburban areas, is a significant driver of compost usage, with about 35% of U.S. households engaging in organic gardening practices. The growth of eco-conscious consumerism and sustainable practices is expected to further boost market growth in this region.

Europe

Europe holds a significant share of the global compost market, approximately 30%, driven by stringent waste management regulations and the increasing adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are major contributors to this growth, with over 50% of households engaging in composting. European Union directives encouraging waste diversion and the recycling of organic waste have also contributed to market expansion, with composting programs now implemented in over 40% of EU cities. The demand for organic food and eco-friendly gardening practices in Europe is also expected to fuel further growth in the compost market.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the compost market, accounting for approximately 20% of global demand. The rapid urbanization and growing awareness of sustainable agricultural practices in countries like China, India, and Japan are driving the growth of the compost market. The rise of urban farming and organic gardening has significantly contributed to the market, with compost usage in horticulture and landscaping rising by 15% annually. Additionally, government initiatives supporting waste management and recycling practices in countries like China are further boosting compost demand in the region.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region is witnessing a steady increase in compost demand, particularly in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. Compost usage in landscaping, especially in desert regions, is growing rapidly, accounting for about 10% of the global compost market. The increasing adoption of sustainable agriculture practices and the promotion of organic farming are key drivers in the region. Approximately 20% of agricultural producers in the Middle East now use compost to improve soil quality and crop yields, leading to higher market demand for compost in the region.

List of Key Compost Market Companies Profiled

• MyNOKE
• NutriSoil
• Davo’s Worm Farms
• Earthworm
• Wormpower
• Kahariam Farms
• SAOSIS
• Sri Gayathri Biotec
• Jialiming
• Dirt Dynasty
• SLO County Worm Farm
• Agrilife
• Suman Vermi Compost

Top 2 companies having highest share

• MyNOKE – 22% market share
• NutriSoil – 19% market share

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

This upward trend in the compost market presents substantial investment opportunities across various sectors. The expansion of commercial composting facilities accounts for 35% of the growth, while home composting adoption contributes 25%. Additionally, initiatives aimed at reducing food waste represent a 20% growth factor. Incorporating compost into agriculture and urban planning enhances market potential by 15%. Investors can capitalize on these trends by supporting innovative waste management solutions (30%) and sustainable agricultural practices (20%). The growing demand for eco-friendly products and sustainable solutions continues to drive substantial investment potential within the market.

New Product Development

In response to the growing demand for sustainable waste management, companies are focusing on innovative composting products. The introduction of the Reencle Prime, an in-home electric composter, is a prime example, addressing 25% of urban household waste processing needs. This product contributes to reducing food waste by 20%, while promoting sustainable gardening practices by 15%. The rise in eco-friendly solutions is reflected in the 30% increase in demand for at-home composting products. With consumers increasingly seeking sustainable alternatives, this innovation is set to capture a significant share of the growing compost market.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Compost Market 

• Reencle introduced the Reencle Prime, an in-home electric composter designed to convert kitchen waste into usable compost, addressing urban waste management needs.

• The Composting Consortium released a report identifying investment opportunities to scale food-waste composting infrastructure, aiming to divert more food waste from landfills.

• USDA invested approximately $11.5 million in 38 cooperative agreements to support innovative waste management plans, focusing on reducing and diverting food waste from landfills.

• UrbanWyrm, supported by gardening expert Charles Dowding, offered 300 liters of their premium garden compost valued at £200, promoting sustainable gardening practices.

• La Junta de Castilla y León announced the construction of an organic waste treatment plant at the "Los Huertos" Waste Treatment Center, with a budget of €2.7 million, funded by European Next Generation EU funds and the Segovia Environmental Management Consortium.

Report Coverage 

The comprehensive report on the compost market offers a detailed analysis of market dynamics, including market size, share, and growth trends. Segmented by type (yard trimmings, food wastes, manure, vermicomposting, etc.) and application (home gardening, landscaping, golf courses), the report highlights the increasing demand for sustainable, eco-friendly compost products. Key regions such as North America (28%), Europe (25%), and Asia-Pacific (30%) are showing significant growth. The market is expected to experience a shift towards high-performance compost, as industries prioritize environmental responsibility and energy efficiency. Key players focus on innovations and investments in sustainable, high-quality compost production methods.