Composting in Tropical Areas
We’ve recently received comments from readers describing the challenges of composting in tropical areas. Gardeners in the tropics deal with extreme levels of heat and humidity, not to mention lots and lots of bugs that can be attracted to the compost. Thus, I did some research to try and find sources of information on composting in the tropics. I found a pretty well-written site on composting in hot moist areas from Peace Corps volunteers at Michigan Tech University. In addition to a list of recommended techniques, the website has a number of links to other websites dealing with composting in the tropics, plus email addresses of people you can write for advice and more information. Having never made compost in the tropics myself, I can’t vouch for these techniques. However, I would think that if resources allow, a tumbling compost bin would be an excellent option to keep pests out and maintain a good amount of oxygen in the mix. Please leave a comment if you have any other ideas or experiences making compost in tropical areas.
October 26th, 2007 at 12:18 pm
I live in Miami, Florida, and have been using a tumbling compost bin for about 9 years with great success. I originally started composting in the bin on my townhouse patio, overlooking a golf course. I now live in a house and am still using the bin. I have it in a location where it gets full sun most of the day. My husband and I have no problems with bugs, etc.