Cindy,
Back in my Grandma's time the trash pile was usually in the back yard. Broken things ended up there. I have also found a lot of clay marbles in the garden among other trash and treasures. Most of the cups, bowls and glazed pieces are worthless, but sometimes I find a pretty piece to keep.
I just assumed the lighter stuff would blow away if it got on top. I would add it to potting mixes then cover with garden dirt when I planted. I add a scoop of mix to each thing I plant in hopes of just loosening up my garden. I have fairly loose soil to start with, but it can compact.
