Build a Small Compost Bin

Having a small compost bin can be very advantageous to those who have a garden at home. Compost bins are used to store composts. Composts are nutrient-rich materials made from food scraps, decayed plants and other organic wastes. Aside from being economical, having a small compost bin can also help save the environment by limiting the use of chemical fertilizers that can damage the environment. Below are the materials that you need along with the instructions on how to make a small compost bin.

 Step 1-Prepare Garbage Can

Use the electric drill to make a few half-inch holes three inches apart on the sides and bottom of the small garbage can. The holes will allow water and air to enter and exit your small compost bin.

Place a brick at the bottom of the large garbage can. This will act as the platform for the small garbage can that you will later insert into the large garbage can. If the single brick is not enough to hold the small garbage can with enough stability, add one more brick for more support.

Step 2-Insert the Small Garbage Can

Position the large garbage can in an area where it gets direct sunlight. Put the small garbage can inside the large garbage can. The appropriate spacing of the cans should be two to three inches space all over the can. The small garbage can positioned on top of the bricks on the large can should be placed way below the top edge of the can.

Step 3-Filling in the Compost Materials

The first items for the compost to be placed at the bottom of the inner can are dried leaves, shredded papers and sawdust. These are called “brown organic materials”. After the “brown organic materials” are settled in the bin, put in the “green” materials, such as grass cuttings, kitchen waste and other garden trimmings. It is advised not to fill in the entire inner bin with the compost materials and leave a reasonable amount of space towards the top for air circulation.

Step 4-Moisten the Compost

The compost materials should be damp in order for the composting process to take place. To do this, add a bucket of water in the compost materials. Make sure not to add too much water on the compost materials. Then cover the compost completely.

Inspect the composts three weeks after being covered. By this time, the compost should be compressed at the bottom of your small compost bin, allowing you to mix compost materials with a shovel. If the compost is a bit dry, add half a bucket of water slowly.

Step 5-Final Touches

After mixing the compost, cover your small compost bin and allow the composting process to complete. Inspect your small compost bin every two weeks and mix the compost. The composting process should be complete and your composts ready for use in two to three months.