There are a lot of whiz bang composting tools on the market these days however, don’t let that overwhelm you. You actually don’t need a lot of tools to get started with your first compost bin or even compost pile. The list below are the first tools I think are worth getting as these will make the process easier and more efficient for you.
Compost Bin
A compost bin is probably the most important tool you require to get started in composting as you need somewhere to put your kitchen scraps. While you can easily start by making a compost pile in your backyard, it is preferable to have a specific compost bin so you can help to prevent attracting pests.
If you are looking to purchase a compost bin, I definitely recommend one that sits on the ground without a bottom (so the worms from the ground can find the compost).
Compost Aerator
A compost aerator is a tool that helps you mix your compost and add oxygen into your compost pile. Aerating your compost is essential to do every couple of weeks and will help speed up the composting process.
If you have the space you can use a pitch fork to help you turn your pile over. If you have a composting bin or smaller space, a compost aerator will be very handy. They look similar to a corkscrew, as you twist the aerator, the bottom section turns like a corkscrew. The process allows the compost to break up and creates space for oxygen pockets.
Digging Fork or Pitch Fork
A Digging fork or pitchfork are the best tools for moving your finished compost. You will be able to move more compost and a lot more efficiently than using a traditional shovel.
Compost kitchen scraps container
To make life easier, it’s great to have a compost container that can be easily accessible in your kitchen. Not only to easily collect your kitchen scraps but also as a reminder to compost ℉your fruit and vegetable scraps.
You can use anything such as a bowl or old food container as a compost bucket but here are some features that are very useful in a compost container:
- decent size so you don’t have to do as many trips to your compost bin
- Strong handle as the kitchen scraps can get heavy depending on the size of your container
- secure lid to avoid flies and odours
Wheelbarrow or Dumping garden cart for transporting compost
Once your compost is ready to use, you are likely going to want to move it from your compost bin to your vegetable garden or other location. If you don’t have much, you can use a bucket. If you have a lot more, you can use a wheelbarrow. You may already have a one that can do the trick. Wheelbarrows can be really hard work on your body so if you find that too strenuous you may like to try a dumping garden cart. These will make the process a lot easier for you and can be used for carrying compost or other garden materials.
Compost Thermometer
Actually a compost thermometer is more of a nice to have rather than a tool you need to get started. If you are making hot compost, it is handy to keep track of the temperature using a thermometer. This helps you to know the best time to turn your pile and also to prevent your pile getting too hot (above 150℉) as it then starts to kill the beneficial microbes.
Concluding What Tools You Need For A Compost Bin
Overall, making your own compost can be a lot of physical work. The tools mentioned above can help you to save time and effort. Keep in mind if you are a beginner to composting you don’t need all these tools to get started and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Work out what is going to suit your budget to get started and build your tools as you go.
