Compost Bins

Did you know that 20-30% of average household waste is organic material? Composting is a great way to recycle this material that would otherwise end up in a landfill site causing environmental damage.

Many people are now turning to home composting as a way of reducing their waste output, not only is it one of the easiest steps to take towards becoming greener, composting is also more environmentally friendly than recycling because no energy is used to transport and process the waste.

Of course though, the best part about composting is the end product, the compost, which is just what your garden needs; it provides nutrition for plants as well as helping to retain moisture in the soil and improve drainage, all for free. Composting is also a great way to introduce youngsters to the ideas of conservation and recycling.

All organic material breaks down naturally by aerobic decomposition. Composting speeds this process up in a controlled manner by supplying the right mix of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and water for the microbes (decomposers) to thrive.

A compost bin, also referred to as a composter, is the most common and straightforward method of home composting. With many different types on the market differing in materials and shape it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Our information bellow will help you to buy the compost bin that is right for you.

Choosing a compost bin that is right for you

Type of Bin

An important note to take into consideration is that there are two main types of compost bin available, stationary and tumbler. Most of points raised so far apply to stationary bins.

Stationary compost bins are open-bottomed and are placed directly on the open ground, usually slightly buried to provide stability and to prevent rodents and pets from entering. This method allows creatures such as worms, nematodes and ants to enter through the soil and contribute to the decomposition process.

Tumbler compost bins generally don’t hold as much as stationary bins but they do make compost faster. Typically a compost tumbler is a barrel shaped container attached to a frame that allows it to be rotated. Once the bin is loaded it is left for a few days and thereafter turned several times a day. The tumbling action ensures that the decomposing bacteria are well oxygenated and the contents are well mixed, keeping the decomposition process running at full speed. Due to this method the tumbler needs to be filled in one go and cannot be continuously topped up like a stationary compost bin, which might not be convenient for some people. Another disadvantage of the tumbler method is that some strength is required to turn the bin, especially if it is full. Another point that should be noted is that because the bin is not in contact with the ground, creatures beneficial to the composting process, such as worms, cannot enter the bin naturally.

Materials

Whatever material you choose for your compost bin it is important to make sure that it is rain, frost and sun proof.

Plastic is the most common material used for the construction of compost bins and is the easiest to maintain. When choosing a plastic composter, look for one that has been made from recycled plastic.

Wooden bins are also widely available. Wood is a desirable material because it is better at retaining heat than plastic and allows the decomposing material inside to breathe. However, wood is prone to decaying itself and can sometimes have been treated with chemicals that may prove detrimental to the composting process.

Metal is a good choice of material if rodents are a problem. However drainage can be a poor and it should be noted that wooden and plastic compost bins are completely adequate at keeping out all but the most persistent of animals.

Shape & Design

Even though the compost bin doesn’t provide the most glamorous of functions there are some aesthetic and functional aspects you may want to take into consideration when making your purchase, especially considering that this object will be sitting I your garden for many years to come.

Shape: Cylindrical composters have no corners, which is advantageous as mixing is easier and there are no areas where material can get stuck and dry out. Rectangular shaped bins are handy if space is an economy because they fit right up against walls and fences.

Secure lid: A compost heap left open and exposed to the air and rain can lose heat and nutrients so a secure, fitted lid that will allow easy access is essential.

Easy access: For ease of use it is recommended to choose a compost bin that allows convenient access to the inside. A large covered opening at the top of the bin is desirable to allow an easy way to add new material to the compost as well as provide access for turning. A door or hatch at the bottom of the composter is a favourable way of accessing the finished compost, eliminating the need for the lifting or moving of the compost bin.

Strong design: A compost bin will probably take quite a battering over its lifetime so make sure to choose a strong and sturdy one.

Size of Compost Bin

The average compost bins on offer usually have a storage capacity of 200-300 litres, which is an adequate size for a small garden. Anything smaller than this may be unsatisfactory, as it cannot retain sufficient heat for the composting process. For optimum performance a composter of 750 litres and upwards is recommended.

Placing you compost bin

When placing your bin in your garden try to find a level, well-drained spot in a warm area out of the wind. Placing the composter over soil or grass is highly recommended, as this will take advantage of worms and beneficial microbes.