Composting is a simple and effective way to convert your food and garden waste into a nutrient-rich soil that can be used to nourish plants and vegetables. Not only is it an eco-friendly way of disposing waste, but it also helps to reduce the amount of waste going into landfills. A composter can easily be made at home, and in this article, we’ll be exploring the steps to making your very own composter in relaxed, easy-to-understand language.

Composters come in many shapes and sizes, but the basics remains the same; they all function by providing the ideal environment for micro-organisms and other decomposers to transform waste into compost. Whether you would like to build a small-scale composter for use in an apartment balcony or a larger one for your backyard, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and learn how to make a composter!

Materials needed

When it comes to making your own composter, there are a variety of different materials that you can use. Some of the main materials that you will need to get started include:

1. A container

The first thing that you will need is a container of some sort. This can really be anything that you have on hand such as a large plastic tub, a wooden crate, or even a metal trash can. The key is to make sure that it is large enough to hold your compost material.

2. Drill or hammer and nails

Once you have your container, you will need to create some holes in it to allow for ventilation. This can be done using a drill or a hammer and nails. The more ventilation, the better, as this will help to speed up the composting process.

3. Organic matter

In order to make compost, you will need a variety of different organic matter such as vegetable and fruit scraps, grass clippings, leaves, and coffee grounds. You can also add in items such as shredded newspaper and cardboard.

4. Composting activator

To help your compost break down more quickly, you may want to consider using a composting activator. This can be anything from a commercial product specifically designed for composting, to simply adding some soil or manure to your compost.

5. Gloves

It’s always a good idea to wear gloves when handling compost material to prevent any cuts or scratches on your hands.

6. Water source

Your compost will need moisture in order to break down properly, so it’s important to have a water source on hand. This can be as simple as a watering can or hose.

7. Thermometer

While not necessary, a thermometer can help you to monitor the temperature of your compost. The ideal temperature for composting is between 120°F and 150°F.

8. Composting bin

If you don’t want to create your own container, you can also purchase a composting bin. These come in a variety of sizes and styles, and can be a great option if you don’t have a lot of outdoor space.

9. Shovel or pitchfork

You will need some sort of tool to help you turn and mix your compost. A shovel or pitchfork are both good options.

10. Patience

Finally, making compost takes time and patience. It can take several months for your compost to fully break down, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t seem to be happening as quickly as you would like. Just keep adding organic matter and turning your compost, and eventually it will turn into rich, fertile soil.

Choosing the Right Location for Your Composter

Now that you’ve determined the type of composter you want to build or buy, it’s time to determine the best location for it. This decision will depend on a few factors, including the space available, the amount of sunlight and shade, and how close you want it to be to your house or garden. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the location for your composter:

  1. Space
  2. The first thing you should consider is space. You’ll want to choose a location that is spacious enough to accommodate your composter, but not so large that it takes up too much of your yard or garden. Depending on the size of your composter, you may need anywhere from 3 to 8 square feet of space.

  3. Sunlight and Shade
  4. Your compost needs a healthy mix of sunlight and shade. Too much sunshine will dry out the compost, while too much shade will slow down the composting process. Choose a location that receives partial sunlight and shade throughout the day.

  5. Proximity to Your Garden
  6. If you plan to use your compost in your garden, it’s important to choose a location that is close to your garden bed. This makes it easier to transport the compost from the bin to your garden. Alternatively, you can also consider using a tumbler composter for easy mobility.

  7. Accessibility
  8. Consider how easily accessible the location will be for you to add composting materials and turn the pile. You’ll want to be able to easily add food scraps, garden waste, and other composting materials without having to walk too far or navigate rough terrain.

  9. Drainage
  10. Ensure that the ground is level and well-draining to prevent excess moisture build-up in the compost. If you have poor drainage in your yard, consider building your composter on top of a raised platform or pallets to allow for better drainage.

  11. Odor Control
  12. While compost doesn’t usually have a strong odor, having it located close to your house or outdoor living area could be unpleasant. Consider locating your composter downwind from your house or next to a privacy fence to help control any odors.

  13. Water Source
  14. Make sure your composter is located near a water source so you can add moisture as needed. Keeping the compost slightly moist is critical to the composting process and will help it break down faster.

  15. Climate and Weather
  16. When choosing a location for your composter, consider the climate and weather in your area. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall, you may want to choose a location that is sheltered from the elements.

  17. Pest Control
  18. Some pests are attracted to compost, so it’s important to choose a location that is away from areas where pests are commonly found. Avoid building or placing your composter near trees, bushes or other areas that might attract rodents or other pests.

  19. Visibility
  20. If you want your composter to blend in with your garden, it may be best to choose a location that is not visible from your house or entertainment areas. Alternatively, you can consider adding decorative elements or plants around the composter to help it blend in better.

Materials Needed to Make a Composter

Making a composter requires a few basic materials. These materials are easy to find and cost-effective. Here are some of the materials you will need to create your composter.

Materials Details
Plastic Trash Can A 30-gallon plastic trash can with a lid
Drill A drill with a 1/2 inch drill bit
Brick A brick or cinder block
Bungee Cord A bungee cord to keep the lid closed
Shredded Paper Shredded paper to provide carbon-rich materials
Vegetable Scraps Vegetable scraps to provide nitrogen-rich materials

1. Choosing the Right Trash Can

Choosing the right trash can is the first step in making a composter. It is important to find a plastic trash can with a lid that is at least 30-gallons. This will provide enough space to hold the organic materials and allow for proper airflow. You can use any color or type of plastic trash can as long as it has a lid.

2. Drilling Holes

Once you have your trash can, the next step is to drill holes in the sides and bottom of the can. These holes will allow air to circulate freely and keep the compost from becoming too wet. Using a 1/2 inch drill bit, drill holes about 4 inches apart in a pattern around the sides and bottom of the can.

3. Placing the Composter

After drilling the holes, you need to put the composter in an area where it will receive sunlight. It is important to choose a location that is convenient for you to access and close to a water source. Also, make sure to place a brick or cinder block under the compost bin to prevent contact with the ground and improve airflow.

4. Adding Organic Materials

Now that your composter is set up, it’s time to start adding organic materials. Shredded paper and vegetable scraps are perfect for providing the carbon-rich and nitrogen-rich materials necessary for composting. Layer the materials and make sure to keep the compost moist but not too wet.

5. Maintaining the Composter

Composting requires patience and attention. It’s important to keep an eye on the compost and add new materials as needed. Also, be sure to turn the compost every week or so to keep it aerated and speed up the process. Finally, make sure to keep the lid on the composter secured with a bungee cord to keep pests out and prevent any odors from escaping.

Happy Composting!

Congratulations! You have just learned how to make a composter from the comfort of your own home. Organic gardening and reducing waste have never been easier! By following these simple steps, you can help reduce landfill impacts and promote healthier soils. Remember, the key is to add nitrogen-rich greens and carbon-rich browns regularly and to keep your compost moist. Thanks for reading and happy composting! Don’t forget to check back for more gardening tips and tricks.