Compost Bins
What is a compost bin
A compost bin is a container that you add green matter (ie kitchen scraps) and brown matter (ie brown leaves). You are required to turn the pile regularly and monitor the moisture levels. Overtime, the organic matter will turn to compost that you can use on your garden.
Setting up a compost bin
You can purchase a compost bin from your local hardware store, online or the second hand economy or you can make your own compost bin from wood or heat treated pallets. You can even simply have a compost pile and skip the bin all together.
To get started, if go with a closed in container, its a good idea to put a mesh or chicken wire on the bottom to stop pests digging under the bin.
Next you want to put a layer of dried leaves or shredded paper.
Now you are ready to start adding your kitchen scraps.
The importance of greens (nitrogen) and browns (carbon)
To be successful at using a compost bin, there are three key substances: Air, Water and Food.
There are two food components made up of Green matter (or nitrogen rich) and brown matter (or carbon rich). The brown matter though is the essential ingredient and it is important to get the ratio or green to brown accurate. You’ll want at least 50% carbon rich ingredients to be successful.
Each time you add your kitchen scraps to the compost bin, be sure to mix carbon matter with it and then cover the scraps with carbon on top. This helps to prevent attracting pests such as flies.
Examples of green (nitrogen) ingredients
Some examples of greens are:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Coffee grounds
- Egg shells
- Breads
- Grass clippings
Examples of brown (carbon) ingredients
Some examples of browns are:
- Shredded paper
- Newspapers
- Straw
- Cardboard