Compost Bins

Composting is a process that uses earthworms and microorganisms to turn lawn, kitchen and plant scraps into a mixture that can be added to soil, creating a nutrient rich base for any growing purpose. Composters can use the material as a mulch to keep underlying soil moist, as an additive to ground soil for planting, and can even create a compost ‘tea’ for watering established plants.

While placement of a compost bin, contents and timing are all important, the bin itself is perhaps the most crucial piece of the compost equation. All of these bins accomplish the same goal. The bin choice will depend on asthetics, as well as how much work a gardener is willing to do.

Wire-Framed Bin

This is among the easiest of the compost bins to make at home. Begin by digging four holes to create a square measuring 36 inches on each side. The holes should be about two feet deep and will each hold a six foot 2×4, which should be set with either concrete or soil that has been packed tight.

Attach any type of wire fencing, like chiken wire, to three sides of the bin with heavy duty staples, leaving the fourth side open to use as an access point. Cut a section of fencing large enough to cover the fourth side, and hammer the edge that will function as the hinge, into the post with staples. Hammer four additional staples to the 2×4 in a straight line where the panel will be opened, driving midway into the post, leaving enough space for a small dowel to slide through. Press the edge of the wire panel against the staples, allowing them to slide through the openings in the fencing. To secure the panel, insert the dowel through the gaps in the staples.

Slatted Bin

Set four posts in the same manner as the wire-framed bin. Instead of wire fencing, attach 2×6 horizontal slats on three sides of the frame, leaving a 1/2 inch gap between slats to allow air circulation. A rot-resistant wood should be used for any of these projects.

The simplest gate option for this bin is using the same method as the wire-framed bin, by attaching chiken wire to the open side with staples and a dowel.

Outdoor Garden Compost Bins

Tiered Bin

The tiered bin is an exact replica of the slatted version. The difference being a second or even third bin, depending on individual composting needs, that is separated from adjacent bins by a wall. The purpose of this variety of compost bins is to hold soil and debris in different stages of compost in different compartments, by turning the contents and dumping them into the next bin as the composting process progresses.

Compost Tumbler

Tumbler-style composters come in several different styles. The most common are the horizontal drums that are mounted on wheels or axles to make turning the bin easier, allowing the contents to be mixed. The same type of tumbler can be made vertical with a garbage can that has been drilled with several holes to allow air circulation. Rotating the can regularly, with or without wheels, will achieve the same results as a horizontal tumbler.

Tip: Rich compost needs sufficient air circulation. To speed up the process, a PVC pipe, about 4 inches in diameter, that has been drilled with holes can be placed in the center of the debris pile. Not only will this allow air circulation, but it will aid in the distribution of moisture as well.

Not all scraps are appropriate for use in a compost bin. Some good scraps include:

1. Fruit and vegetable scraps
2. Eggshells
3. Coffee grounds
4. Grass and plant clippings
5. Dry leaves
6. Shredded newspaper

Scraps to avoide include:

1. Any scraps consisting of meat, oil, fat or grease
2. Diseased plant matter
3. Any materials from treated wood
4. Dog or cat waste
5. Weeds that go to seed
6. Dairy products

For the true hands-on gardener, composting is a fantastic and free way to add essential nutrients to their soil, resulting in a lush yard or garden full of thriving plants.

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