Compost Choices

There are several types of composters. You can use a bin or a chamber, but you may also compile a compost heap in an inconspicuous area around the house or leave grass trimmings on the lawn. Chamber systems or bins can be used in both methods of composting.

Types of compost bins

In the photograph below is an example of a compost bin constructed from plastic using the passive method of composting. It is completely animal proof, has a lid, small ventilation holes and is firmly anchored on the ground.

In the photograph below is an example of a single chamber system. It may be made from wooden palettes and can be used for both means of composting (active or passive).

The double chamber system showing in the photograph below allows for both active and passive methods of composting. Using the passive method compostables are left to rot in one chamber until completely filled before starting to fill the second chamber. Under the active method the heap is periodically transferred from one chamber to the other.

Chamber systems can be assembled from wooden palettes, wire mesh, air bricks or a combination, whereas compost bins can be made from metal or plastic barrels. As seen in diagrams above, all chamber systems and bins have ventilation holes because aerobic microbes are dependent on air for survival.

Passive methods of composting include leaving grass trimmings, leaves and prunings on the ground to produce a foliage covering or 'mulch' therefore returning moisture. This prevents excess evaporation or erosion and enriches the soil during the dry months.

Getting started

To start composting actively or passively commence with a layer of dampened carbon rich waste obtained from shredded paper, cardboard or dry leaves and add a thin layer of compost. Then add dampened nitrogen rich waste obtained from, fresh farm animal manure, grass clippings or if necessary sulphate of ammonia or urea. Continue to add waste in alternating layers of carbon and nitrogen rich products for best results. Note that each layer should be no thicker than six inches.

Maintaining your compost

Utilizing the active method turn and water the compost heap once a week. Under the passive method simply wet once a week. All 'passive' compost bins should have a trap door at the bottom, to access the finished compost as the finished compost is always at the bottom of the bin.

When is compost "ready"?

Finished compost is black in color and has an 'earthy' smell. It is the same temperature as the soil. It may need sieving because all things placed in the composter may not decompose totally in the same timeframe.

<< Previous Section | Next Section >>