How to Build a Compost Tumbler

From LoveToKnow GreenLiving

Knowing how to build a compost tumbler can remove some of the largest objections to composting such as smell and lack of space. While compost tumblers are available for purchase at many different price points, a compost tumbler can also be built from a few basic materials.

Composting Material

Advantages of a Compost Tumbler

A well cared for compost pile should never smell, but harried homeowners may find that a compost tumbler is easier to turn over and maintain regularly than the standard compost pile. Compost tumblers also discourage wild animals from foraging in the compost you are trying to create. Neighbors may also encourage a contained tumbler rather than an open pile in your backyard. Compost tumblers also increase the chances that you will be able to maintain compost that is neither too wet nor too dry.

How to Build a Compost Tumbler in Four Easy Steps

Compost tumblers are available in many variations. The size and elaborateness of your tumbler will depend on the amount of waste you have to compost as well as your construction skill.

  1. Find a barrel with a top and bottom. A plastic 50-gallon barrel is an excellent choice for most backyard gardens.
  2. Cut a hole in the side of the barrel large enough to accommodate a shovel to mix the compost.
  3. Attach the piece you have just removed to the barrel with hinges on one side and a latch on the other.
  4. Drill holes through the barrel to allow for air circulation to encourage microorganism growth. Be sure to drill adequate holes on all sides of the barrel for best results.

This basic tumbler can be rolled around after new compost has been added and every few days to increase the decomposition rate. However, this modest compost tumbler may not satisfy homeowners with large amounts of compost or those who regularly use their compost tumbler. For these homeowners, they should consider building a compost tumbler with a few extra features.

  • One great feature is a stand for the tumbler that allows you to turn, rather than roll the tumbler.
  • Consider adding bars to the interior of the tumbler. Fixed bars that span the length of the interior of the barrel will break up any large clumps within the barrel.

Filling a Compost Tumbler

Compost tumblers should be filled with a wide variety of organic matter. Lawn clippings, vegetable and fruit scraps, even newspaper can be added to create compost. Follow these rules for the best results.

  • Avoid adding too much of one item. Try to keep a balance between food scraps and yard waste.
  • Chop waste such as bush trimmings into small pieces before adding it to your compost tumbler. Newspaper should be shredded before being added.
  • Always add water. After adding composting materials or after several days, add some water to add in the decomposition. The compost should be damp, never wet. The compost tumbler should drain quickly if you over water it, but try to avoid wasting water in this manner.
  • Know when to stop adding material. A barrel that is too full will inhibit the quick rate of decomposition for which tumblers are prized.

Final Considerations

Gardeners with a lot of experience and space for composting may find that a compost tumbler is inadequate for their needs. In these cases, the advantages of a compost pile may outweigh a few drawbacks. Building a compost bin may also be better than a tumbler for some homeowners. For gardeners that still appreciate the ease of use that compost tumblers offer, they may consider using several tumblers that are all in different states of decay. Once you learn how to build a compost tumbler, constructing several is a quick and inexpensive job for most homeowners.

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