Compost Drum
There are many different types and sizes of compost bins available. If you like the idea of making your own compost bin then you may be interested in making a compost drum. Compost drums are easy and inexpensive to create.
A compost drum is made using an industrial or commercial type drum. These can often be purchased inexpensively and sometimes even obtained for free. Before using your drum, always make sure that you have cleaned it out thoroughly so that no residue from its previous use is left inside the drum.
You will also need to drill some holes in the drum. Remember that your compost will need to be watered on occasion to provide moisture, but you do not want your compost to become overly wet. As a result, drainage is imperative. Drilling the holes inside the drum will allow you to provide the moisture that your compost needs without worrying about it becoming saturated. Drilling holes in the compost drum will also help to add critical air circulation to your compost.
There are two different ways that you can use a compost drum. You can use it much like a barrel and then simply stand it upright and add waste materials to your compost as you go. If you choose to use this method then you will need to turn your compost drum upside down from time to time in order for your compost materials to be well mixed. This is another essential for creating good quality compost.
You may also choose to install a crank in your compost drum. This can make it much easier to mix the waste materials in your compost drum without the need to actually lift it and turn it upside down.
Many suggest using two drums or cannisters so that you don't have to slow down composting process each time you add new material. Let the one finish, while you add new material to a different bin. See why Mantis Compost-Twin is the Best Composting Tumbler in the USA.
When adding materials to your compost drum you do need to make sure that you take care not to squash the materials down too tightly as this can interfere with the composting process. As a result, it can take longer for the waste materials to decompose. If you find that you are running out of space in your compost bin and the materials are not yet ready for use then it is time to start another batch of compost in a new compost drum. The fact that industrial drums are so inexpensive makes it easy and cheap to start a new batch as you need it.