The Compost TumblerUsing a device such as the Compost Tumbler, is a relatively easy way for just about anyone to turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into valuable, nutrient rich organic matter to add to plants and trees throughout your yard.
There is much information presented on this website related to the process of composting. There are many different methods by which to produce compost, and it is a relatively easy process. Personally, I have tried many different approaches to producing compost, and I have found that some methods work better than others. One of my most favorite methods is through the use of the Compost Tumbler. I have one in my backyard right now, and I love it! Please see my discussion on compost making for more info on how I use the Compost Tumbler in my yard, what types of material I add, and the types of results that I’ve achieved. When you are looking for a composting bin to purchase for your own yard, there are several things that you should take into consideration. #1 – Will the compost need “turning”? If the bin that you’re looking to purchase is suspended above the ground, the compost will need turning and the device will most likely be designed for this. What you’ll need to review is how easy it will be to turn once it is full. One of the many reasons I love the Compost Tumbler is the ease with which I can turn a full bin. The design is such that the turn of an arm on one side cranks the entire load with little effort on my part. My parents have a capsule-shaped bin which can be very difficult to turn when it is full to capacity. Keep in mind that compost bins that sit on the ground may not require turning, however may require a much longer time period to produce finished compost, which brings me to #2.
#2 – How long will it take to produce a finished product? Most bin composters will advertise the amount of time required to produce finished compost. This is yet another feature I love about the Compost Tumbler, finished compost is produced in about 2 weeks. Feel free to view the compost making pictures I have of what my finished compost actually looks like as it comes out of the tumbler. Due to the turning action of this device, the heated core (the area that actually does the “composting”) is constantly moved to bring in new material and speed up composting. Unturned piles take longer to decompose, and not all composting bins produce compost as quickly even when the device is turned. #3 – How easy is it to remove the compost from the bin once it is complete? This is not something I would have thought about initially, but when I looked at the advertisements for the Compost Tumbler, I noticed that the largest size (the one I own) can be opened by placing a wheel barrow under the device, opening the door, and turning the bin. The compost falls out nice and easily. Carefully examine the bin that you plan on purchasing to make sure that this will be an easy process. If the compost doesn’t fall out easily, you may not be inclined to use it! The only other advice I would give if you’re interested in compost making is to just dive right in! You don’t need to know any special tricks or have any special skills to start doing this yourself. You don’t even need to purchase the compost activator that most companies sell with their compost bins. Follow some of the simple steps that I have posted on this site and give your garden the good stuff!! It will do wonders for the environment and for your garden! To those of you who embark on this journey, congratulations on doing your part for the environment! Happy composting!
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