Are you planning on constructing your very own compost bin all by yourself? That’s an excellent idea because you can now construct your bin the exact way that you would want it, you no longer need to compromise with what’s available online. In this article we will discuss the general rules for constructing your own composting bin, let’s not waste time and dive in;
General rules
- Your compost pile must be a minimum of one cubic yard. The ideal size will be between 3-6 square feet.
- Always make sure you choose a location on a well-drained and level ground close to the water source.
- Keep it away from buildings and wooden fences.
- Never set up the compost bin over a tree root that is shallow.
- Be sure to mix Browns (carbons) and greens (nitrogen) at a 1: 2 ratios accordingly.
- Be sure to make the materials moist before you can add them. Make a depression that is concave to the top which will help to retain rain. All the composting materials must be kept damp.
- In the summer make sure you add the required amount of water to maintain the right amount of moisture.
- Be sure to regularly turn the composting pile, this will help to maintain the air circulation which is good for the process
- Once your compost is ready make sure you age it for at least one month before adding it to your soil.
Constructing a portable bin
- If you plan on constructing a portable bin then the best way to go about it is by using woven wire such as hardware cloth.
- You will definitely require a minimum of 11 feet to a maximum of 23 feet off this hardware cloth and it should also be 3 feet wide.
- The next step would involve tying up all the ends with a wire or hooks.
- If you like you could also go in for framed compost bin. It would involve using hard cloth and treated lumber.
- Try and limit framed bins to a size of 5 inches and a minimum of three inches.
Constructing a pallet composting bin
- For this you will require five pallets with the spacing of the slate of 1 inch.
- Keep one pallet with the slats to the ground.
- Organize the leftover pallets in an upright position surrounding the base on every side.
- Every corner of each side must be attached with wire, rope, coat hangers, etc.
- These sites will last you for at least four years and a maximum of six years. You can replace it then.
- The bottom of the bin will last for at least two years. All you would have to do is use a fresh palette on top of the old one as and when required
- You can add the second pallet of the bottom adjacent to the first bin.
- Tie up the additional three pallets surrounding it and make sure that you have to tie it within the first bin.
- Now you can air out all the composting matter with the help of the second bin.
Well, that’s all for this article and I do hope that our pointers have helped you to construct your own bin portable or pallet. All the best!