The compost situation at my parents house until yesterday and earlier this afternoon was a rather miserable one: a single bin, rarely turned, not easily accessible, and whose wooden sides themselves were slowly but surely turning into compost. Using some recycled pallets (is there anything they aren't good for?) I constructed a simple three bin system that should be much easier to turn, process, and store ready-made compost until it can be used.
The two larger bins measure 4' square, and are vented to allow air flow. The third bin (for finished compost, measures slightly smaller (approx. 42"). As with most projects I've undertaken in the course of my agricultural experimentation, the prime concern is cost. These bins are held together simply, with drywall screws ($5.49 for 225 screws) and small corner posts (scraps) that the slats are screwed into. Pallets, where you can find them, are free.
To locate the new system, some invasive english ivy was removed (with much zeal) from a hedge near the western edge of their property. The cleared section is leveled so that the bins are likewise resting level. Aesthetics being everything, after all.
The existing bin was emptied: the top layer of fresh yard waste and kitchen scraps is set aside and the processed compost sifted and stored in the third bin. Side note: as uncovered humus (the finished product) will lose nutrients over time, it is best to either use it right away or cover it. All as to be yet decomposed material is added to the first two bins: the larger bin for the freshest, the second for that material which has been at it awhile.
There you have it. The fresh bins are watered to streamline the process by encouraging microbes and bacteria to get to work.
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