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Compost Bins

Compost bins make the whole concept of composting into a neater and more organized system. This may not be for you, but if it is then it is both simple and inexpensive. First consider the alternatives.


Compost can be made by simply piling organic matter and leaving it alone for a while. This may take two or three years and the top of the pile may appear as if little is happening except for a weathered and wind blown look. However, the bottom of the pile should be very good compost and ready to use. If you have lots of room and do not mind having what the uninformed will consider a pile of garbage around, then a few compost piles are fine.


A compost bin first gives a new appearance to the whole matter. It looks as if this is more than a garbage pile, but that there is purpose behind it. Most bins are located nearby the garden and hence a clue is given to the ultimate end of the yard debris and kitchen waste that fills the bin. People who do not guess that you have a compost objective are more likely to ask about the bin than they are the potentially embarrassing garbage heap.


Second, a compost bin tends to give a spark to the idea of composting that generates enthusiasm. Once the bin is full, the question of what to do with it raises its head and calls for an answer. The simple solution is to leave that bin to compost while filling another. A second but similar answer is to remove the contents, mix them thoroughly, and return them to the bin. This will enhance the composting process, sometimes taking only half the time an unmixed pile would need to become finished compost.


Continuing the responses to the question leads to the third impact of a compost bin, it tends to breed more compost bins or at least give impetus to the idea of making more. Three bins tends to be an ideal number for most gardeners.

  • the first is a collecting bin, accumulating all that kitchen and garden waste until a pile about 3 feet on a side and 3 feet tall is developed
  • bin two gets the first bin load turned into it, mixing the compost in the process
  • bin three gets the second pile turned into it either every third day for hot composting or when the first bin is again full for cold composting


Whichever method of composting you use, a compost bin will give direction and appearance to the process. It will help with the overall process of giving the best garden ever.


Darrell Feltmate is an avid gardener who has been composting and gardening for over 25 years with gardens up to 1/2 acre and compost piles for each. His composting site may be found at Compost Central. You can be a master composter in no time at all.


Much of his compost uses wood shavings from his wood turning hobby. The site for wood turning may be found at Around the Woods.


Source: www.a1articles.com