What is a good size for a compost bin?

Should my compost bin be in sun or shade?

Should my compost pile be in the sun or in the shade? You can put your compost pile in the sun or in the shade, but putting it in the sun will hasten the composting process. Sun helps increase the temperature, so the bacteria and fungi work faster.

Is it OK to turn compost daily?

Turning too often (every day) disrupts the formation of the fungi and actinomycetes that do much of the composting work and may prevent the pile from heating up completely. For the fastest, most efficient decomposition, a pile should be left essentially alone to “cook” until it starts to cool.

Do compost bins save money?

Improving soil quality and garden vitality by releasing rich nutrients into the soil. Suppressing plant diseases and pests, this reduces or eliminates the need for chemical fertilisers and manures helping you save money.

Is it better to compost on the ground or in a bin?

Both methods work well but are generally only suitable with some space available in your backyard. What is this? Compost bins typically require less space than compost piles, but both methods will work well in most cases. This generally makes the choice come down to space and personal preference.

What are the cons of a compost bin?

If you aren’t careful, a compost pile can develop a nasty odor – nasty enough to attract bugs, as well as rats and other four-legged pests. You can minimize this composting disadvantage by turning the pile regularly and by burying food scraps in the center of the pile, (or by not composting at all).

How long does it take for a compost bin to turn into soil?

Decomposition will be complete anywhere from two weeks to two years depending on the materials used, the size of the pile, and how often it is turned. Compost is ready when it has cooled, turned a rich brown color, and has decomposed into small soil-like particles.

Can I leave compost on top of soil?

You can sprinkle compost on top or mix it into your flower and vegetable beds, gently rake compost into tree beds, blend it with potting soil to revitalize indoor plants, or spread it on top of the soil on your lawn as a soil amendment.

What will make compost break down faster?

Adding nitrogen rich materials

The microorganisms in compost need both nitrogen and carbon to work. If there is too much carbon, the process will slow down. To speed up the process try adding ‘greens’ – items which are high in nitrogen, such as grass clippings or manure.

Can you just dig a hole for compost?

Dig and drop composting couldn’t be simpler: Dig a hole, approximately 10 to 12 inches deep and as wide as you want or need it to be. Drop food scraps or other organic matter into the hole. Replace the soil, and you’re done.

Is it OK to plant directly into compost?

Compost is one of the best garden amendments available. You can plant in straight compost, but I suggest incorporating it into your sandy garden soil or mixing it with other additives if you want to use it for container plantings.

Can I put soil and dead plants in compost?

Branches get trimmed, leaves drop, or plants die. We’ve been asked several times, “What should I do with my dead plant?” Luckily there is a great green way to handle this waste: composting! Of course, composting only works as long as the soil isn’t contaminated with pests or disease.

What happens if you plant directly in compost?

Growing plants in pure compost can cause problems with water retention and stability as well. When mixed with topsoil, compost works wonders with water, as it allows good drainage through heavy soil while it retains water in sandy soil. Used on its own, however, compost drains quickly and promptly dries out.

Will tomatoes grow in compost?

Well-amended soil, full of rich compost and other organic material can be your secret weapon to having the best tomatoes around. There is no man-made substitute for good old-fashioned compost.