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Composting 2 |
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Lets try composting – part 2
Now that we covered some of the basics about what composting is, lets get to the nitty-gritty of it.
By now most of you know there are many forms of composting systems to use. All work in the same manor to produce that rich dark nutritious substance that is awesome for your gardens & houseplants.
This comes down to 2 questions to ask your self:
1) How much space do you have to compost? Some of us have large yard or acres of space. Others might have less. Not a problem! There is a composting system to fit every need & yard!
2) To make or purchase a compost system? For some they might not have the tools, time or space to make they’re own system.
We will look at the options available and help with this decision. As with all things, there are advantages & disadvantage to each type of system. However all systems work the same to get the end results.
Homemade systems
There are many options with this system. The bin size you want to achieve would be about 3’ x 3’ box. Don’t forget, you need to turn the pile so don’t build the sides too high. You can enclose the bin with recycled materials such as old free pallets from a local store. Purchase materials such as cinder blocks, steel post or fencing. NEVER use treated lumber to compose. The chemicals could leach into you compost soil. Purchased or recycled material is only required it you want to enclose the compost area.
If you have the available space, you can build a type of one bin system with just a pile & a trap. Over time the materials will compost, but you will need to get to the bottom of the pile to use the finished product. This could mean removing non-decomposed materials to get to it usable compost. This type of composting will take a bit longer but Red-worms can also be added to the pile to help speed up the process. They also help to “turn” the pile as they work their magic!
A 2-bin system works in the same fashion with the same materials to build. The difference is one bin contains a pile being built. And the other is for a pile that is already built and more advanced in decomposing. When you start a system like this, you will need to use a garden fork to “turn the pile” into to other bin. One bin will always be for newly added composing materials, and one for usable compost. This system will require more yard space.
If a pile is not for you, try a trench that is dug 8” deep in the garden. Put kitchen scrapes in the trench and leave for a couple of months to decompose. Then you can simply plant over the scrapes or turn them into another part of the garden. We have also just pitched kitchen scrapes in the garden through out the summer and winter and let nature do its thing. It will get turned under in fall or come spring.
If you have a large pile of autumn leaves, you should just rota-till them into the garden in the fall. I mow over our leaves many times to chop them into small piece for quicker decomposing in the garden.
Purchased systems
There are many excellent systems out there for the buying. Although they’re more costly the composting process will be quicker because of the container being enclosed. You might also need to chop items for composing smaller to fit into the container opening.
These will rotate & tumble the materials fairly easy so the labor might be easier on the back. Be sure not to over pack the container because ingredients won’t tumble. Commercially available bin systems are expensive but keep your compost neat and tidy. A variety of sizes and styles are available to choose from.
The next thing you need to decide it just how much matter do you have to compost? This will guide you to make the right choice for the right system. Maybe you could share a system with a neighbor.
Once again Chimes and Birds wants you to get out and enjoy your yard! Lets make it better one compost pile at a time!
Visit our online store at www.ChimesAndBirds.net for more yard tips or products help to enhance the beauty of your landscape or home!
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