(Question)
Is it okay to put citrus peelings into my compost?
(Answer)
Thank you for your question to Toronto Master Gardeners.
Yes, you can use citrus peels in your compost, especially if they are chopped up.
The first article attached as reference is from The Guardian. Citrus peel should not make your compost too acidic if chopped.
The second article, from Eco RI News, addresses the issue of the chemicals that worms do not like. “Citrus peels contain limonene, which worms dislike. Conveniently, the greenish blue mold that develops on old citrus peels selectively eats limonene. Once the mold has eaten enough of the limonene, the worms will eat the citrus peels.” Tips for What Belongs In a Compost Pile
The third article, by Helen Yemm of The Telegraph, discusses the addition of lime mix for those worried that the compost will be too acidic for the worms in a “wormery”(vermicomposting).
I hope this gives you some food for compost thought!