Compost Bin Tips

If you are interested in building a compost bin, there are some tips you should consider. Some of these include where to place it, how to keep it moist, and how to keep the heat inside the pile. You will also want to consider the use of worms.

Placement

The proper placement of your compost bin can make the task of converting your green waste into gold a bit easier. If you’re unsure of the correct way to go about it, here are a few tips that will ensure your new compost heap is an asset to your garden rather than a liability.

First and foremost, make sure to read the instructions. For the most part, the plastic bins designed for this purpose are pretty easy to set up. Also, check the user manual for any special requirements, such as a lid or a spigot. Some will even allow you to add soil for good measure.

Layering

Composting is an excellent method for disposing of your waste. It also provides you with garden-friendly soil additives. When done correctly, it is very easy to start your own compost pile. However, it is important to follow a few tips when layering your compost bin.

First, choose a place to place your bin. Ideally, it should be on bare ground, with a good amount of ventilation. A concrete floor is not recommended because it inhibits microbial activity. If you aren’t able to create a bare-ground compost pile, you can use a heavy-duty garbage can.

Next, make sure that your compost bin has a lid. This will keep out rain and odors, while providing a protective cover.

Air and water

The secret to a healthy compost pile is a good aeration system. This is an important aspect of the process, since the microbes that help decompose food waste need water and air to survive. Ideally, your bin should be located near a reliable water source.

In addition to aeration, the composting process is also aided by holes in the base of your bin. These holes are designed to improve ventilation and drainage. You can achieve this by making a few perforations. They are not as large as the ones on a soda can, but they will provide adequate oxygen for your microbes.

There are many ways to aerate your compost, but the most important is to create an environment that controls moisture. This requires a combination of proper ventilation, regular aeration, and periodic controls of moisture levels.

Worms

If you’re using a compost bin, you may find that your worms are coming out of the bin. Worms come out of their compost when they are agitated by something. This can be a sign of a number of problems, including infestations. There are tips to help you keep worms in your compost bin.

Worms in your bin need to be kept in a cool environment. They can be harmed by warm temperatures and direct sunlight. Your bin should be placed in a shady spot outdoors, such as a basement or garage.

In winter, the temperature of your worm bin should be kept in the 50 to 80 degree range. You can also place it in a warmer location in the spring or summer.

Keeping the moisture and heat in the compost pile

Compost piles need moisture and heat to survive. This can be achieved by using a few tips and tricks.

The best way to maintain the moisture and heat in your compost pile is to place the pile in a location with good air circulation. Keeping the compost moist can also be accomplished by adding water or misting the pile.

A compost bin can be constructed from wire, cinder blocks or wood. It should have a floor and lid. When creating your compost bin, make sure that the holes do not exceed 1/4 inch.

To get the most out of your composting, you need to think of your compost pile as an organism. The more microbial activity you can get in the pile, the faster the decomposition process will be.

Avoiding compost bin bags

While you’re putting your kitchen scraps to rest, make sure to take a few minutes to reclaim some of your hard earned green goodness. For starters, there’s a lot more to composting than just your food scraps. You’ll want to set aside some room in your bin for your yard waste and some non-food related debris.

The best way to go about it is to make a list of the things you need to throw away and then assign each item to one of the aforementioned categories. You’ll also want to keep a running tab of the amount of compost you’re producing. Depending on your waste dumping habits, you may find yourself changing out your liner bags for the better part of a year.