Is a bigger compost bin better?
There is no right or wrong size. Proper ingredients and maintenance will result in compost. It All depends on what you want out of it. You can start small and increase if you would like to try it out. Compost Pile Making a compost pile is the easiest and cheapest way to compost, however, it also takes the longest amount of time. When you make a compost pile you are helping facilitate the natural decomposition of organic material, like food scraps.No matter what method you choose, remember that the key to speeding up composting is to keep the compost piles warm and moist, turn them often, and maintain the right carbon to nitrogen ratio. This will help speed up the decomposition process so you can enjoy your pre-compost sooner!The optimal ratio for a compost should be roughly 70% carbon (leaves, pine straw, wood chips, nut shells) and 30% nitrogen (vegetable scraps, garden weeds, coffee grounds, manures, hay.
Is it cheaper to buy or DIY a compost bin?
A homemade diy compost bin can be less expensive than the store bought ones and will actually serve you better in your garden as you begin composting. By building your own compost bin you can be sure to make it large enough to hold everything you want to add to it. Many people believe composting is the best alternative to landfills, but it is quite similar to landfills, and it can harm the environment. The composting process is almost the same as sending waste to the landfill because it leaves organic materials to decompose, which releases greenhouse gases into the environment.Composting can attract unwanted pests and wildlife, which can create public health risks and damage property. Plus, improperly managed compost piles can emit strong odors, which can create problems for nearby residents and businesses.
Should compost bins be on grass or concrete?
It’s possible to put your compost bin on concrete, tarmac or patio slabs, but it is a good idea to place a layer of soil, compost, manure or newspaper and card on the bottom so that worms and other creatures can be attracted to the compost. Having composting materials sit directly on soil allows microorganisms, worms and insects — creatures that facilitate the composting process — to move from soil into compost. As materials break down, they release moisture. Not having a solid base also means that moisture can drain freely from the pile.
Where not to put a compost bin?
Keep your compost pile away from the house It’s also best to put your compost pile specifically away from trees as their roots could interfere with it. The best spot in your yard is a well-drained section near your garden and a water source, such as a hose or rain barrels. The Best Place For a Compost Bin The composting process happens in sun or shade (think of the forest floor — lots of composting happens there), although the process occurs more quickly in a sunny spot. Compost in the sun also tends to dry out more, so you may need to moisten the pile more often.
Is it better to put a compost bin in sun or shade?
A shady spot is actually better for composting, as the sun can dry out a pile and it doesn’t really help to warm it up. I like to use pallets for my bins, as they make a large enough pile to heat up nicely, and they’re free or close to it. The compost bin should be placed in a well-lit and well-drained area of the garden, preferably out of the wind.Let it rest until it doesn’t smell like a compost pile, and begins to smell like rich fertile garden soil. Then it’s ready for immediate garden planting. If your pile is not quite ready, it can be emptied into your garden bed in fall to overwinter and be ready in time for spring planting.
What are two mistakes that we should avoid when we prepare compost?
Use Compostable Materials: Include only materials that can safely decompose in your compost pile. Avoid adding meat, dairy, oils, and pet waste, as these can attract pests, cause odors, and introduce pathogens that are harmful to plants and humans. Avoid citrus fruits, odorous foods like onions and garlic, meat, dairy products, greasy foods, bones, and pet waste. Chop up scraps into small pieces before adding them to the bin to allow for faster decomposition.