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How to set up a simple, budget, and DIY compost bin at home
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Decide on do's & don't for your compost bin.
Setting up a compost bin in your home doesn't have to be a complicated or expensive undertaking. There are more complex composting systems out there, but starting small and keeping it simple will be enough for most households. As you see for yourself how composting works you'll be able to tweak your own system to meet your needs.
1. Find two containers with lids: a smaller one to sit in your kitchen and a larger one that will be the main compost bin.
You can spend hundreds of dollars buying a fancy compost bin that is designed specifically for the purpose - but really there's no need to do this unless you just want to. Just look around the garage or in the garbage for an old container. We reused an old plastic cat litter container and then a large tub purchased for a few bucks at the local swap meet.
2. Set up the kitchen bin.
The purpose of this is to easily move kitchen food waste into a receptacle without having to take it to the main bin every time. Keep the lid on to keep bugs out and simply move the waste to your main bin when it is full or when it's convenient for you.
3. Set up the main compost bin.
What works best for you will depend on your available outside space and natural environment. We like to have a lid and make very small holes in the bin in order to discourage rodents and other animals. Putting the bin on a tree limb or higher up will help with this also. In its simplest form, this is just a tub with small holes poked in the bottom of it so air can get in. You should have a way to easily open the bin and also a way to stir it.
4. Establish rules for what your family should put in the compost.
This will depend on what you want to use the finished compost for. If for a vegetable gardening, you may want to be stricter about putting only organic waste and nothing that would add toxins to your food garden. If using for non-eatabe plants, you may want to maximize waste put into the compost. It helps to make a list and post it on the kitchen bin.
5. Make sure to mix your main bin and add a balance of browns and greens to keep the compost happy.
Usually you'll be able to just pick up leaves and/or grass to add to the bin. This helps create a balance where the composting process can take place.
6. Enjoy the fruits of your compost.
Depending on how active your main compost bin is, you'll have great organic compost to use in 3-6 months. If you don't need it, offer it to a neighbor - this is some of the best soil available and better yet, it's FREE and helps the environment!
FOR MORE INFO:
- Sign up for the Green Living Retreat to learn more about living more eco-friendly in your daily life.
- Check out other simple and budget ways to green your home.
- Join a CSA in Hawaii to get organic fresh veggies in your kitchen.
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