Comments on: Compost Tumblers

By: steve

steve — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:15:51 +0000

@caron, You have a few options when composting. You can do batch composting, which means you fill the composter with browns and greens, keep it moist and well aerated and wait until its finished, then use the finished compost. Typically this method involves a second composter or bucket to keep your material while the first compost bin is finishing. Then you have new material to add when the batch is done.
Or you can add browns and greens as they come available, the material will break down as you are adding to it. Once it’s full, you will stop adding to it and allow the process to finish. Like batch composting usually having a second composter or bucket to hold the extra material is helpful.

By: caron

caron — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 18:35:10 +0000

We are considering a compost tumbler? If you are continually adding scraps, when do you get the good soil out without having newer scraps mixed in? Or, is there a time you take a break from adding your scraps? Just trying to figure out how to get the soil without the scraps. Thanks!

By: steve

steve — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:32:49 +0000

@Jean, Yes, a vertical composter is much easier to turn using the momentum than a horizontal bin. As for heating up your bin, I would suggest using cottonseed meal. You can purchase it at most feed stores and it’s a great source of nitrogen to get your compost going.

By: Jean

Jean — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 23:44:51 +0000

My tumbler is horizontal so it is hard to turn. The vertical ones would be easier using momentum to turn it. My tip – buy a bin that is taller than the ones that are lower.
After four weeks in the tumbler the compost isn’t hot enough. We’ve put lime, grass clippings,it’s moist and in the sun. Our thoughts are – we might buy some comfrey to heat it up? What are your thoughts

By: steve

steve — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 19:20:45 +0000

@Dan, No, its best to use this type of composter outdoors. The only type I would consider using in doors is a vermicomposter which uses worms to break down the material. Like this one: http://www.cleanairgardening.com/wormcomposter.html

By: Dan

Dan — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 10:00:46 +0000

Thanks! Let me understand: this Compost Tumbler does not need ground to stand on? it can be placed in a room??