Compost Bin

If you are shopping around for a compost bin, you will find many options. There are all sorts of choices for these devices used to store decaying organic debris. You can choose to use a container made from wood, wire, metal, plastic or a combination of these materials.

When you choose wood as a material, it is a good idea to verify that the type of wood used is weather resistant. Cedar is a good example of a weather resistant wood. The hardware used to hold the wood slats together is also important, because it will be exposed to the elements. Look for galvanized screening and hardware if you decide to purchase a wood bin.

Plastic is another good option for a compost bin. Plastic is durable and it is incapable of rotting. It is also lightweight and durable. If you choose to use this type of container, look for one that is well ventilated. When choosing plastic, you also have the option of choosing recycled plastic. This environmentally friendly choice appeals to many gardeners with green ideals.

Some gardeners choose metal as their material of choice. Galvanized metal is a great option for storing organic matter. The metal tumbler design is a popular choice. Many gardeners choose this design because of the ease of using it. Turning a handle is easier on the back than stirring a large pile with a pitch fork.

A wire bin will store leaves and other yard refuse. You should add green matter to the brown matter to complete the proper ratio of carbon based and nitrogen based ingredients. A wire compost bin is usually the most basic design. It is often left open on the top. Many gardeners used this option before the other designs grew in availability.

When shopping for your compost bin, you will notice that many of them include the words, “assembly required.” As many gardeners are avid do-it-yourselfers, you may wonder if you could just build your own bin. Some might reason that if they bought one, they would have to put it together anyway, so they might as well build one that they can design to meet their specifications.

If you plan to build your own compost container, you may want to consider the following--

materials that are weather (specifically water) resistant or proof, such as plastic or galvanized metal. Some woods, like cedar are also decent options.
the size of your container, the amount of refuse you want to compost.
if you want separate sections or chambers so that you can have more than one batch of compost going at a time.
where you will store your bin or box and how to customize it to fit your space.

Experienced gardeners know that creating compost will allow you to supplement your soil with rich nutrients, beneficial bacteria and fungi important for the health of your garden. As you begin the process of using organic matter to enrich your garden, the first thing you will need is a compost bin. The many options available today include ready-to-assemble bins and DIY versions that you can build to your desired specifications.