How to Make Compost using Tumblers & Bins

Introduction

Composting is the process of breaking down organic materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that can be used in gardening and agriculture. It's a natural and sustainable way to reduce waste and improve soil health. By composting at home, you can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save money on fertilizers and reduce your contribution to landfill waste. In this blog, we will cover the basics of composting, the benefits of composting, and how to make compost at home. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner, composting is an easy and rewarding practice that can benefit both you and the environment.

What is Compost?

Compost is the result of the natural decomposition of organic materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and other biodegradable items. The composting process involves microorganisms breaking down these materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that can be used to improve soil quality and plant growth.

Compost is a natural and organic alternative to chemical fertilizers, which can harm the environment and contaminate water sources. Compost can improve soil structure, increase water retention, and provide essential nutrients to plants. It also helps to reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions by diverting organic materials from landfills.

Compost can be used in a variety of ways, including as a soil amendment for gardening, as a mulch to help retain moisture in the soil, or as a potting soil for container plants. Composting at home is a simple and effective way to create your own compost and reap the benefits of this natural soil amendment.

I.Benefits of composting

Composting offers numerous benefits for both the environment and the individual. Some of the key benefits of composting include:

Reducing landfill waste: Composting diverts organic materials from landfills, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in these facilities. Organic waste in landfills can also produce methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Improving soil health: Compost adds organic matter and nutrients to soil, which can improve soil structure, increase water retention, and provide essential nutrients to plants.

Reducing the need for chemical fertilizers: Compost is a natural and organic alternative to chemical fertilizers, which can harm the environment and contaminate water sources.

Saving money: Composting can help reduce the need for expensive fertilizers, soil amendments, and other gardening products.

Encouraging sustainability: Composting is a sustainable practice that promotes the circular economy, where waste is seen as a resource that can be used to create something new.

Promoting biodiversity: Composting can help support biodiversity by providing essential nutrients and habitat for beneficial microorganisms, insects, and other organisms.

Supporting the local food system: Composting can be used to create healthy soil for local farms, community gardens, and urban agriculture projects.

Overall, composting is a simple and effective way to promote sustainability, reduce waste, and improve soil health.

II.Importance of composting at home

Composting at home is important because it allows individuals to take an active role in reducing their environmental impact, while also providing numerous benefits for their own gardens and households.

Here are some of the reasons why composting at home is important:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Composting diverts organic materials from landfills, where they would produce methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Reducing waste: Composting can significantly reduce the amount of waste produced by households, which can help reduce the strain on local waste management systems.

Saving money: Composting can help reduce the need for expensive fertilizers and soil amendments, saving households money on gardening products.

Improving soil health: Compost adds organic matter and nutrients to soil, which can improve soil structure, increase water retention, and provide essential nutrients to plants.

Supporting local food systems: Composting can be used to create healthy soil for local farms, community gardens, and urban agriculture projects.

Encouraging sustainability: Composting is a sustainable practice that promotes the circular economy, where waste is seen as a resource that can be used to create something new.

Educating future generations: Composting at home is a great way to teach children and future generations about the importance of sustainability and responsible waste management.

Getting started with composting

III. Materials Required for Home Composting

A. Greens and browns

To make compost at home, you will need a mix of "greens" and "browns." Greens are nitrogen-rich materials, such as grass clippings, vegetable and fruit scraps, and coffee grounds. Browns are carbon-rich materials, such as dry leaves, wood chips, and shredded paper. It's important to maintain a balance between greens and browns in your compost pile to ensure proper decomposition. A good rule of thumb is to have a ratio of about 3 parts browns to 1 part greens.

By combining greens and browns, you can create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that is beneficial for plants and the environment. The greens provide nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth, while the browns provide carbon, which helps to balance the pH of the compost and promote healthy decomposition. With the right mix of greens and browns, you can create a high-quality compost that is perfect for enriching your garden soil and supporting plant growth.

B. Composting bin

A composting bin is a container used to hold your compost materials and facilitate the composting process. There are several types of composting bins available, ranging from DIY solutions to store-bought options.

Some popular types of composting bins include:

Tumbler composters: These are rotating containers that make it easy to turn and mix your compost.
Stationary bin composters: These are stationary containers that allow you to layer your compost materials and easily remove finished compost from the bottom.
Worm composters: These are containers that use worms to help break down your compost materials, resulting in a nutrient-rich soil amendment known as vermicompost.
Homemade bins: You can also create your own composting bin using materials like wood pallets, cinder blocks, or even a large plastic container with holes drilled into the sides for ventilation.

When choosing a composting bin, consider factors such as your available space, the amount of compost you plan to make, and your budget. The right composting bin can help make the composting process easier and more efficient.

C. Garden tools

While not strictly necessary, having a few garden tools on hand can make the composting process easier and more efficient.

Here are some garden tools you may want to consider:

Pitchfork or garden fork: This tool can be used to turn your compost pile, helping to aerate it and speed up decomposition.
Shovel or garden spade: These tools can be used to add new materials to your compost pile, as well as to remove finished compost.
Garden hose or watering can: These tools can be used to add water to your compost pile, which is important for keeping the compost moist and helping to speed up decomposition.
Thermometer: A compost thermometer can be used to monitor the temperature of your compost pile, which can help you determine when it is ready to use.
Gloves: Composting can be messy work, so having a pair of gloves on hand can help keep your hands clean.

Having these tools on hand can make the composting process easier and more efficient, allowing you to create high-quality compost with less effort.

IV. Setting Up a Composting System

A. Choosing a location for the compost bin

Choosing the right location for your compost bin is an important step in setting up your composting system. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a location:

Accessibility: You'll want to choose a location that is easy to access, so you can easily add materials to your compost pile and turn it when necessary.
Sunlight: Your compost pile should receive some sunlight each day, as this can help speed up decomposition. However, too much sunlight can dry out the compost, so choose a location that receives partial shade as well.
Drainage: It's important to choose a location that allows for good drainage, as a waterlogged compost pile can become anaerobic and start to smell.
Proximity to your garden: Ideally, your compost pile should be located near your garden so you can easily use the finished compost to amend your soil.
Odor control: While composting shouldn't produce a strong odor if done correctly, it's still a good idea to choose a location that is somewhat away from your house or outdoor living areas.

Once you've chosen a location, you can set up your composting bin and begin adding your compost materials. With a little patience and effort, you can create a rich, nutrient-packed compost that will help your garden thrive.

B. Selecting the right compost bin

Selecting the right compost bin is an important part of setting up your composting system. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a compost bin:

Size: The size of your compost bin should be determined by the amount of compost you plan to make and the available space in your yard.
Type: There are many different types of compost bins available, including tumbler composters, stationary bin composters, worm composters, and homemade bins. Choose the type that best fits your needs and budget.
Materials: Compost bins can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, and metal. Choose a material that is durable and able to withstand outdoor conditions.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is important for the composting process, so choose a compost bin with adequate ventilation to allow air to flow through the compost pile.
Accessibility: Make sure your compost bin is easy to access so you can add new materials and turn the compost pile when necessary.
Aesthetics: While not essential, you may also want to consider the aesthetics of your compost bin, especially if it will be visible from your house or outdoor living areas.

By selecting the right compost bin for your needs, you can help ensure that your composting system is efficient and effective, producing nutrient-rich compost to help your garden thrive.

If you are interested in how i make compost in home, please watch the video below

C. Layering greens and browns

Layering greens and browns is an important part of setting up your composting system. Here's how to do it:

Greens: Greens are materials that are high in nitrogen and moisture, such as grass clippings, vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds. Begin by adding a layer of greens to the bottom of your compost bin.
Browns: Browns are materials that are high in carbon, such as leaves, straw, and shredded paper. Add a layer of browns on top of the greens.
Water: After adding each layer, moisten the materials with a watering can or hose. The compost pile should be damp but not waterlogged.
Repeat: Continue adding alternating layers of greens and browns until your compost bin is full. Try to maintain a ratio of roughly 2:1 browns to greens.
Mix: Every few weeks, use a pitchfork or garden fork to mix the materials in your compost bin. This will help to aerate the pile and speed up decomposition.

By layering greens and browns in your compost bin, you can help create the ideal environment for beneficial microorganisms to break down the materials into nutrient-rich compost.

D. Adding water

Adding water to your compost pile is an important part of maintaining the proper moisture level. Here are some tips for adding water to your compost pile:

Water regularly: Your compost pile should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. As a general rule, you should aim to keep the compost pile as damp as a wrung-out sponge. This means that the materials should stick together when you squeeze them, but no water should drip out.
Add water as needed: Depending on the weather conditions and the materials in your compost pile, you may need to add water more or less frequently. Check the moisture level of your compost pile regularly and add water as needed.
Use a watering can or hose: You can add water to your compost pile using a watering can or a hose with a spray nozzle. Start by adding a little water at a time, and then check the moisture level before adding more.
Mix the pile: After adding water, use a pitchfork or garden fork to mix the compost pile thoroughly. This will help distribute the moisture evenly throughout the pile.
Cover the pile: Consider covering your compost pile with a tarp or lid to prevent excess moisture from rain or snow.

E. Adding worms (optional)

Adding worms to your compost pile is an optional but beneficial step that can help speed up the composting process and create high-quality compost. Here's how to add worms to your compost pile:

Choose the right type of worms: The best type of worms for composting are red wigglers (Eisenia fetida). You can purchase them online or from a local worm farm.

Prepare a bedding for the worms: Before adding the worms to your compost pile, you'll need to create a bedding for them. This can be made from shredded newspaper, cardboard, or other types of paper. Dampen the bedding with water until it's as damp as a wrung-out sponge.

Add the worms: Once you have your bedding prepared, spread it out over the top of your compost pile. Then add the worms on top of the bedding. The worms will burrow down into the compost pile to feed and reproduce.

Feed the worms: To keep the worms healthy and productive, you'll need to feed them a balanced diet of greens and browns. Add fresh kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and other green materials to the top of the compost pile, and cover them with a layer of browns.

Monitor the moisture level: It's important to monitor the moisture level of your compost pile regularly, as worms require a damp environment to survive.

V. Maintaining the Compost Pile

A. Turning the pile

Turning the compost pile is an important step in maintaining a healthy and productive composting system. Here's how to turn your compost pile:

Wait for the right time: It's best to turn your compost pile when it's about half decomposed. This usually takes about four to six weeks, depending on the materials and weather conditions.
Use a pitchfork or garden fork: To turn the compost pile, use a pitchfork or garden fork to lift and mix the materials. Start at the bottom of the pile and work your way up, mixing the materials as you go.
Add water as needed: If the compost pile is too dry, add water as you turn it. This will help rehydrate the materials and create a more even distribution of moisture.
Layer greens and browns: As you turn the compost pile, add fresh greens and browns to the top of the pile. This will help introduce fresh nutrients and balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
Monitor the temperature: After turning the compost pile, monitor the temperature to make sure it stays between 120-160°F (49-71°C). This will help ensure that the materials decompose properly and kill any pathogens or weed seeds.

B. Checking moisture levels

Checking the moisture level of your compost pile is an important part of maintaining a healthy and productive composting system. Here's how to check the moisture level:

Use your senses: To check the moisture level of your compost pile, use your senses. Take a handful of the compost and squeeze it tightly in your hand. If water drips out, the compost is too wet. If the compost feels dry and crumbly, it's too dry. The ideal moisture level is damp, but not dripping wet.
Check the weather: The weather can have a big impact on the moisture level of your compost pile. If it's been raining frequently, your compost pile may be too wet. If it's hot and dry, your compost pile may be too dry.
Add water or dry materials as needed: If your compost pile is too wet, add dry materials like shredded newspaper or dry leaves to the top of the pile and mix them in. If your compost pile is too dry, add water to the top of the pile and mix it in.
Monitor the moisture level regularly: Check the moisture level of your compost pile regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Add water or dry materials as needed to maintain the ideal moisture level.

C. Adding more greens and browns

Adding more greens and browns to your compost pile is an important step in maintaining a healthy and productive composting system. Here's how to add more greens and browns to your compost pile:

Layer the materials: When adding more greens and browns to your compost pile, it's important to layer them properly. Start with a layer of browns, such as dry leaves or shredded newspaper, and then add a layer of greens, such as grass clippings or vegetable scraps.
Mix the materials: After layering the materials, use a pitchfork or garden fork to mix them together. This will help distribute the moisture and oxygen throughout the pile and speed up the decomposition process.
Monitor the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio: When adding more greens and browns to your compost pile, it's important to maintain the right carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. A good rule of thumb is to have about three parts browns to one part greens. You can use a compost calculator to help determine the right ratio for your compost pile.
Monitor the moisture level: After adding more greens and browns to your compost pile, check the moisture level to make sure it's not too wet or too dry. Adjust as needed by adding water or dry materials.
Monitor the temperature: Finally, monitor the temperature of your compost pile to make sure it stays between 120-160°F (49-71°C). This will help ensure that the materials decompose properly and kill any pathogens or weed seeds.

D. Avoiding composting pitfalls

Composting is a great way to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil that can be used to nourish plants and gardens. However, there are some pitfalls that you should be aware of to ensure that your composting efforts are successful.

Here are some tips for avoiding composting pitfalls:

Balance your compost ingredients: Composting requires a balance of carbon-rich (or "brown") materials like leaves and branches, and nitrogen-rich (or "green") materials like grass clippings and vegetable scraps. Too much of either can cause problems such as a slow breakdown or an unpleasant smell.
Chop up large materials: Large materials like branches and stalks can take a long time to break down. It's best to chop them up into smaller pieces before adding them to your compost pile.
Keep your pile moist: Composting requires a certain level of moisture to help the materials break down. If your pile is too dry, it will decompose slowly or not at all. If it's too wet, it can become anaerobic and start to smell. Aim for a moisture level similar to a damp sponge.
Turn your pile: Turning your compost pile helps to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process. Aim to turn your pile once a week, or when the temperature drops.
Avoid adding meat or dairy: Meat and dairy products can attract pests and emit unpleasant odors. Avoid adding them to your compost pile to keep it healthy and odor-free.
Don't add pet waste: Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can survive in the compost pile and contaminate your soil. It's best to dispose of pet waste in a separate area.

VI. Troubleshooting Common Composting Issues

A. Foul odors

Foul odors can be a common issue when composting, but there are several ways to troubleshoot and prevent them.

Here are some tips to help with foul odors in your compost pile:

Add more carbon-rich materials: Foul odors are often caused by an excess of nitrogen-rich materials in your compost pile. Adding more carbon-rich materials like dry leaves, sawdust, or shredded paper can help to balance the pile and reduce odors.
Mix up the pile: If the pile is too compact, it can become anaerobic, which can cause foul odors. Mixing up the pile with a pitchfork or compost turner can help to introduce air and reduce odors.
Keep the pile moist: Composting requires a certain level of moisture to break down materials. If the pile is too dry, it can become anaerobic and produce foul odors. Make sure to keep the pile moist, but not too wet.
Avoid adding meat or dairy products: Meat and dairy products can attract pests and emit unpleasant odors. Avoid adding these materials to your compost pile to prevent odors.
Avoid adding pet waste: Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can survive in the compost pile and create unpleasant odors. It's best to dispose of pet waste in a separate area.
Use a compost bin: If you're composting in an open pile, it can be more challenging to control odors. Using a compost bin with a lid can help to contain odors and prevent pests from getting into the pile.

By following these tips, you can troubleshoot and prevent foul odors in your compost pile. Remember that composting is a natural process, and it may take some trial and error to find the right balance for your specific situation.

B. Pests

Pests can be a common issue when composting, but there are several ways to troubleshoot and prevent them. Here are some tips to help with pests in your compost pile:

Keep a balanced pile: A balanced compost pile with a mix of carbon-rich and nitrogen-rich materials can help prevent pests. If the pile is too heavy in nitrogen-rich materials, it can attract pests like fruit flies, while a pile with too many carbon-rich materials can be slow to decompose and attract rodents.
Cover food waste: Food waste is a common attractant for pests like rodents and flies. Covering food waste with a layer of dry leaves or shredded paper can help to deter pests.
Use a compost bin: Using a compost bin with a lid can help to prevent pests from getting into the pile. Make sure the bin has small enough holes or vents to prevent larger pests from getting in.
Turn the pile regularly: Turning the compost pile regularly can help to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process, which can help to deter pests.
Avoid adding meat or dairy: Meat and dairy products can attract pests and emit unpleasant odors. Avoid adding them to your compost pile to keep it healthy and pest-free.
Avoid adding pet waste: Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can survive in the compost pile and attract pests. It's best to dispose of pet waste in a separate area.

C. Slow decomposition

Slow decomposition can be a frustrating issue when composting, but there are several ways to troubleshoot and speed up the process.

Here are some tips to help with slow decomposition in your compost pile:

Check the moisture level: Composting requires a certain level of moisture to break down materials. If the pile is too dry, it can decompose slowly or not at all. If it's too wet, it can become anaerobic and start to smell. Aim for a moisture level similar to a damp sponge.
Add more nitrogen-rich materials: If your compost pile is heavy on carbon-rich materials like leaves and branches, it may need more nitrogen-rich materials like grass clippings or vegetable scraps to help speed up decomposition.
Chop up large materials: Large materials like branches and stalks can take a long time to break down. It's best to chop them up into smaller pieces before adding them to your compost pile.
Turn the pile regularly: Turning your compost pile regularly can help to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process. Aim to turn your pile once a week, or when the temperature drops.
Add compost activators: Compost activators like commercial compost starters or natural materials like comfrey leaves or manure can help to speed up the decomposition process.
Consider the location and temperature: Composting works best in a warm, moist environment. If your compost pile is located in a cool or dry spot, it may decompose more slowly. Consider moving the pile to a warmer spot or adding a cover to retain moisture.

D. Overheating

Overheating can be a common issue when composting, especially in larger piles. Here are some tips to troubleshoot and prevent overheating in your compost pile:

Check the moisture level: Composting requires a certain level of moisture to break down materials, and an overly dry or wet pile can contribute to overheating. Aim for a moisture level similar to a damp sponge.
Add more carbon-rich materials: An excess of nitrogen-rich materials can contribute to overheating. Adding more carbon-rich materials like dry leaves, sawdust, or shredded paper can help to balance the pile and prevent overheating.
Turn the pile more frequently: Turning your compost pile more frequently can help to aerate it and prevent overheating. Aim to turn your pile once a week or more, depending on the size of the pile.
Consider the size of the pile: Larger piles are more prone to overheating, so consider breaking down large piles into smaller ones. Smaller piles can also be easier to manage and turn more frequently.
Use a compost thermometer: A compost thermometer can help you monitor the temperature of your pile. If the temperature reaches above 160 degrees Fahrenheit, it can kill beneficial microorganisms and slow down the decomposition process. Aim for a temperature between 120-160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water the pile: If the pile is too dry, it can contribute to overheating. Water the pile with a hose or watering can to keep it moist.

By following these tips, you can troubleshoot and prevent overheating in your compost pile. Remember that composting is a natural process, and it may take some trial and error to find the right balance for your specific situation. Be patient, and keep experimenting to find the best methods for your compost pile.

VII. Harvesting and Using Compost

A. Recognizing when compost is ready

Knowing when your compost is ready for harvesting is important to ensure that it is fully decomposed and rich in nutrients. Here are some signs to look for to recognize when your compost is ready:

Color and texture: Fully decomposed compost will have a dark brown or black color and a crumbly, soil-like texture. It should not have any recognizable pieces of organic matter.
Smell: Compost that is ready to use should have a pleasant, earthy smell. If it has a strong, unpleasant odor, it may not be fully decomposed.
Temperature: The temperature of the compost pile can be an indicator of its readiness. When the temperature of the pile stabilizes and no longer generates heat, it may be ready to harvest.
Time: Depending on the size and composition of your compost pile, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more for the compost to be fully decomposed. Keep track of when you started the pile, and give it enough time to fully decompose.

By observing these signs, you can determine when your compost is ready for harvesting and use in your garden. Remember that composting is a natural process, and it may take some time to achieve fully decomposed compost. Be patient and keep experimenting to find the best methods for your specific situation.

B. Harvesting compost

Harvesting compost is a simple process, but it's important to do it properly to ensure that you get the best results. Here are the steps to follow when harvesting your compost:

Stop adding new material: A few weeks before you plan to harvest your compost, stop adding new material to the pile to allow it to finish decomposing.
Move the top layer aside: Use a shovel or pitchfork to move the top layer of the compost pile to the side. This will expose the fully decomposed compost underneath.
Harvest the compost: Use a garden fork or shovel to remove the fully decomposed compost from the bottom of the pile. Be sure to leave any unfinished material in the pile to continue decomposing.
Sift the compost (optional): If you want to remove any large pieces or clumps from the compost, you can sift it through a mesh screen or wire mesh. This will result in a finer, more uniform texture.
Store the compost: Once you've harvested your compost, you can store it in a covered bin or container until you're ready to use it in your garden.

By following these steps, you can harvest your compost and use it to improve the quality of your soil. Remember that composting is a natural process, and the quality of your compost may vary depending on the materials used and the conditions of your compost pile.

C. Using compost in the garden

Compost is a valuable resource for any garden, as it provides nutrients and improves the texture and structure of the soil. Here are some tips for using compost in your garden:

Apply the compost to the soil: Spread a layer of compost over the soil and work it into the top few inches of soil with a garden fork or tiller. Aim for a layer of compost about 1-2 inches thick.
Use compost as a mulch: You can also use compost as a mulch by spreading a layer of it over the soil around plants. This will help to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients to the plants as the compost breaks down.
Mix compost with potting soil: If you're planting in containers, you can mix compost with potting soil to provide additional nutrients and improve the drainage and water retention of the soil.
Use compost in seed starting mix: Compost can be used in seed starting mix to provide nutrients to young seedlings. Mix equal parts of compost, peat moss, and vermiculite or perlite to create a seed starting mix.
Top dress established plants: You can apply compost as a top dressing around established plants to provide a slow-release source of nutrients.
Test the soil: It's important to test the pH of your soil before adding compost to ensure that you're not altering the pH too much. Most plants prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

By using compost in these ways, you can improve the quality of your soil and promote healthy plant growth. Remember to use compost in moderation and to test the soil regularly to ensure that you're providing the best possible growing conditions for your plants.

D. Storing leftover compost

If you have leftover compost that you're not ready to use right away, it's important to store it properly to prevent it from losing its nutrient content and becoming contaminated.

Here are some tips for storing leftover compost:

Keep it covered: Store your compost in a covered bin or container to prevent it from getting wet and to keep pests and animals out.
Store in a cool, dry place: Compost should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming moldy or losing its nutrient content.
Turn the compost periodically: If you're storing compost for a long period of time, it's important to turn it periodically to ensure that it remains aerated and to prevent it from becoming compacted.
Use it within a reasonable amount of time: Compost can lose its nutrient content over time, so it's best to use it within a year or so of being made.
Label the container: If you have multiple containers of compost, be sure to label them with the date they were made and any other relevant information (e.g. what materials were used).

VIII. Conclusion

Composting at home is a great way to reduce waste and improve the health of your soil and plants. By composting food scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials, you can create a rich, nutrient-dense soil amendment that will help your garden thrive. In addition to providing free fertilizer, composting also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve natural resources. Whether you have a large backyard or just a small balcony, there are many different composting methods that you can use to turn your waste into a valuable resource. So start composting today and join the millions of people around the world who are making a positive impact on the environment!

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