Making your own compost has become a popular past time with todays gardeners and as an alternative to chemical fertilization of crops, its also very good for the environment. Compost is organic and as such contains no chemicals or nitrates.
Of course, the question arises when getting started with composting, is what you should using to make your compost in?
A lot of people make their own compost barrels .
The most important thing when choosing your compost bin or barrel, is to be sure that it has not been used previously for toxic chemicals or other hazardous materials. This could contaminate the compost and subsequently poison or otherwise harm you or your plants.
Generally, a plastic barrel of about 55 gallons will work quite well. Many people choose barrels that are food safe. If you are interested in recycling, you may be able to get your barrel from a food service organization or a restaurant. If it has been used previously for deep frying, you’ll need to ensure that you clean it thoroughly to remove all the food traces.
Once you have your compost barrel cleaned and ready to go, you should drill half inch holes all over the barrel, in about six to nine rows. Space the holes approximately four to six inches apart, and even drill a few holes in the bottom of the barrel to allow for the drainage of excess moisture.
Ensure that if you are opening your barrel from the top the lid is securely fastened. A lot of gardeners turn their compost by simply rolling the barrel around their garden, so if you use this method you need to make sure the lid is tight.
Obviously, compost barrels are not the only things you can use to make your own compost. You can also build or purchase a compost bin, or even better a compost tumbler. A tumbler is the best option if you can afford one, as the task of turning the compost regularly becomes much easier. To accelerate the composting process you need to ensure the compost is aerated properly. The best way to ensure this is to turn the compost over on a regular basis. With a tumbler all you have to do is turn a handle, as opposed to turn it with a fork. I know which method I prefer!