How to make a compost bin?

A compost bin is a great way to minimize trash, feed your garden, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. You can make a natural fertilizer that enhances soil health and stimulates plant development by composting organic debris.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of building a simple compost bin, talk about the required materials for successful composting, offer tips on lining your compost bin, and emphasize what not to put in your compost pile. Let’s get started!

How do you make a simple compost bin?

Creating a simple compost bin doesn’t require fancy equipment or a large space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

• Step 1: Select a location. Choose an appropriate location for your compost bin. It should ideally be conveniently accessible, have good drainage, and receive some sunlight.
• Step 2: Choose a container. To construct a compost bin, you can use a variety of materials such as wood, wire mesh, or reused pallets. Make sure there is adequate space in the container for airflow and easy access to turn the compost.
• Step 3: Build the bin. Make a three-sided construction out of the chosen material, leaving one side open to allow for easy compost turning and removal.
• Step 4: Create a foundation. Place the bin on bare ground or cover it with straw or twigs to help with drainage and to allow beneficial creatures to access the compost.
• Step 5: Include biodegradable materials. Begin layering your biodegradable materials, alternating between green and brown. Fresh grass clippings, vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds are examples of green materials, while dry leaves, straws, and shredded newspaper are examples of brown materials.
• Step 6: Moisture and aeration are the sixth and final steps. Maintain a wet but not soggy compost pile. Turn the pile with a garden fork or shovel on a regular basis to aerate it and allow oxygen to reach the microorganisms responsible for decomposition.
• Step 7: Patience and upkeep. Composting is a slow process. Monitor the moisture level on a regular basis, stir the mound every few weeks, and add fresh materials as they become available. You’ll have rich, dark compost ready to use in your garden in no time!

What five ingredients do you need for a compost bin?

Compost bins thrive on a well-balanced organic material combination. Here are the five basic requirements for composting success:

Eco-friendly materials

These nitrogen-rich materials give microorganisms moisture and protein. Vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee grounds, tea leaves, and fresh grass clippings are all examples.

Brown materials

Carbon-rich materials give structure while also absorbing moisture and preventing smells. Dried leaves, straws, wood chips, shredded newspaper, and cardboard are all examples of brown materials.

Water

• Composting requires a certain amount of moisture.
• Make sure the compost pile is moist, but not sopping wet, like a wrung-out sponge.

Air

It is required for the decomposition of biological substances. Turning the compost pile on a regular basis promotes appropriate aeration and minimizes unwanted odors.

Beneficial microorganisms

Such as bacteria and fungi are responsible for the breakdown process. They are found naturally in organic waste but can also be introduced via compost starter or mature compost.

What do you line a compost bin with?

Lining a compost bin isn’t necessary because it can interfere with the pile’s natural airflow and moisture regulation. If you want to line your bin, choose a porous material such as wire mesh or hardware cloth to facilitate air circulation. These materials aid in compost containment while still allowing beneficial organisms access to organic matter.

What not to put in a compost bin?

Some organic elements can be hurtful to your composting efforts. Do not use the following items to make compost:

• Meat and bones
• Dairy products
• Fats and oils
• Pet droppings
• Diseased or poisonous plants
• Yard waste treated with chemical pesticides
• Stickers stuck on fruit and veg peels
• Charcoal or coal ash

Now, you have several options to make your own compost, dare, and nourish your plants with organic fertilizer, they will surely appreciate it.

Written by Vanessa Gallanti. July 2, 2023

Enthusiast about planning, project management, construction materials and technology, and construction. A civil engineer from Los Andes University and a content writer for Kukun.