Composting is environmental friendly, and it will save money on commercial fertilizer. Any backyard can have a compost bin it requires little space and very little attention. There are several ways to construct a compost bin. Building a container that is five feet by five feet would require lumber and decking screws and two 16-inch wooden pegs.

The bin should be at least 12 inches high making it easier to build using six inch wide by two-inch boards. The boards can be cut at the home improvement center in five-foot lengths, or they can be cut at home. The five foot by five-foot bin will require eight five-foot sections.

Lay one board across and attach it to one sideboard with the screws. Do this until it is two boards high on three sides. Do not connect the front two boards they will be held with the pegs. Use the pegs to hold the boards, so they can be lifted out of place allowing an opening. This method makes it easier access to turn the compost and remove it when it is ready.

A lid can be built out of lumber or a tarp can be fashioned to cover the bin. A cover not only keeps the compost from rain saturation but also helps retain moisture and heat. The compost must be kept moist and turned weekly for faster breakdown.

September 13th, 2011 | Uncategorized