What is a Compost Bin?

Compost is an organic matter that comes from the breaking down of food scraps. This matter can be used in soil.  A compost bin is a container that stores the food breaking down into compost.  Compost bins can be made out of most materials like wood, stone, plastic, or ceramic.

What is a Compost Bin Used For?

A compost bin is used to store materials being used for composting.  Compost bins speed up the process of breaking down foods into organic matter and the bin safely stores the matter until it is ready for use.

How to Make a Compost Bin

1. Select a container for your compost bin.
2. Carefully drill holes into the bottom of the container.
3. Place the container where it will be stored.
4. Add a few inches of brown materials (twigs, small branches, corn stalks, dried leaves).
5. Add a few inches of green materials (grass clippings, kitchen waste).
6. Lightly water the layers as you add them if needed.
7. Continue alternating between brown materials, green materials, and water (as needed) until you reach the top of the container.
8. Carefully drill holes in the top of your lid.
9. Seal the compost bin.

Things to Consider

Use a container that you can seal with a lid or a top to prevent animals from getting into the compost bin.  Make sure you turn or stir your compost regularly to ensure the materials are well mixed and are receiving enough airflow.  The materials in the compost bin should be moist, but not overly wet.  If the compost bin feels warm when you open the lid, that means that the composting process is working.  You will need to add in the same amount of brown materials to green materials to maintain the balance of your compost bin.