what is a good composter

Here are the best composters you can buy in 2022:

• Best Overall: Algreen Products Soil Saver Classic Compost Bin
• Best For Leaves And Grass: Compost Bin by GEOBIN
• Best For Worm Composting: Worm Factory 360 WF360G Worm Composter
• Most Versatile: Behrens RB20 Trash Burner/Composter
• Best Small Composter: Abakoo Stainless Steel Compost Bin
• Budget-friendly Option: FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter

Full Answer

Which worms are best for composting?

• 1,200 Live Red Worms / Red Wiggles!
• These Red Worms turn Organic Waste into Nutrient Rich Soil!
• Red Worms are Nature's Garbage Disposal

What is the best outdoor compost bin?

• Best Overall: Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin
• Best Countertop: OXO Good Grips Compost Bin
• Best Outdoor: FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
• Best Indoor: Chef'n EcoCrock Counter Compost Bin
• Best Compost Machine: Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50
• Best Large: Jora Composter JK270 Tumbler
• Best Worm Composter: Worm Factory 360

More items...

Which composting method is best for You?

You can create good compost quickly using the Berkeley Method for your heap. By “hot composting,” you get finished compost in about 18 days, and you don’t have to worry about weed seeds or pathogens surviving the process. Then again, you can be a laid-back composter with a heap.

What kind of composting is best for me?

✔️ Worms: Worm composting, or vermicomposting, is extremely efficient. Worms break down organic material for a living in the wild: you’re just bringing the natural instincts of worms into a controlled environment. Worm composting is a great choice for those doing indoor composting, because it controls odor well.

What kind of compost bin is best?

Wooden compost bins can process the most waste, but if you don't want to wait half a year for your first batch, insulated compost bins speed up the process, but offer less compost. Garden design is a crucial consideration, too.

What makes a good composter?

To make good compost, you need a 50:50 mix of materials that are rich in nitrogen and carbon. Nitrogen comes from lush, green material such as grass clippings. Carbon comes from brown material, such as woody stems and cardboard. For every bucket load of green material, you need to add the same volume of brown.

Is buying a composter worth it?

Composting is absolutely worth it for anyone that wants to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Taking the time to compost reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and leaves you with a natural fertilizer that can nourish your plants. You can also choose a composting method that's suited to your preferences.

What should I look for when buying a compost bin?

For a family of 1-4 people, we recommend a composter that will process at least 4.5 cubic feet. If you plan to add garden waste or yard trimmings, a capacity of 15 to 20 cubic feet would offer ample space.

What are 3 things you shouldn't compost?

What NOT to CompostMeat and Fish Scraps. That stench of old seafood or the fetid smell of rotting meat are foul, to be sure. ... Dairy, Fats, and Oils. ... Plants or Wood Treated with Pesticides or Preservatives. ... Black Walnut Tree Debris. ... Diseased or Insect-Infested Plants. ... Weeds that Have Gone to Seed. ... Charcoal Ash. ... Dog or Cat Waste.

What breaks down compost the fastest?

You can add several things to compost to speed up the process, including worms, manure, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. You can also mix in a compost accelerator to speed up the process even further. Compost accelerators usually contain bacteria or enzymes that help speed up decomposition.

Are there any downsides to composting?

Carpal tunnel and eye strain In addition to repetitive movements, staring at a bright screen for hours can cause a lot of eye strain and CVS (computer vision syndrome). Taking breaks, keeping the proper posture, and understanding computer ergonomics help prevent or delay these injuries.

What are the cons of a compost bin?

Disadvantages of Composting1) It requires initial investment. Equipment such as composting bin and other equipment might be required to begin the process. ... 3) Composting gives unpleasant smell. ... 5) Lots of work is involved. ... 8) Composting is not suitable for all kinds of organic waste.

Are there negative effects to composting?

The main disadvantages of composting are the following: Windrow and aerated static pile composting require relatively large areas, and odor control is a common problem. Ambient temperatures and weather conditions influence windrow and aerated static pile composting.

Should a compost bin be in sun or shade?

You can put your compost pile in the sun or in the shade, but putting it in the sun will hasten the composting process. Sun helps increase the temperature, so the bacteria and fungi work faster. This also means that your pile will dry out faster, especially in warm southern climates.

What I wish I knew before starting a compost bin?

What I Wish I Knew Before Starting a Compost BinBin Size and Shape.Water and Heat.Things That Don't Break Down.Too Much of One Thing.Harmful Ingredients.Weeds, Animals and Insects.

What is the first thing to put in a compost bin?

twigsLay twigs or straw first, a few inches deep. This aids drainage and helps aerate the pile. Add compost materials in layers, alternating moist and dry.

What are the 4 important ingredients to have a successful compost?

There are four basic ingredients in the compost pile, ni- trogen, carbon, water, and air. grounds and filters, and non meat eating animal manure. Most any organic material that has moisture or 'life' still in it is considered a green material.

What 4 items do you need for a successful compost pile?

For the composting process to work, four things are needed: carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and water. If these are properly balanced then the pile will work. If they are out of balance, then the process will slow down or stop. If they are too far out of balance then there will be problems.

What are 3 key ingredients to a good compost heap?

Composting Basics Browns - This includes materials such as dead leaves, branches, and twigs. Greens - This includes materials such as grass clippings, vegetable waste, fruit scraps, and coffee grounds. Water - Having the right amount of water, greens, and browns is important for compost development.

What can and can’t be composted?

A large variety of organic matter can be composted. These items will biodegrade quickly without causing a strong odor, releasing dangerous chemicals, or spreading illness or disease:

How do I choose the right composter for me?

Most gardeners prefer aerobic composting – which means the organisms that break down the organic matter need oxygen to thrive.

Why do we need a composter?

They are typically designed to hold in moisture and aerate the organic matter which creates the optimal environment for the microorganisms involved in breaking the compost down. They can also help to keep vermin away from the rotting plant matter.

Why do tumblers have two compartments?

Some tumblers have two compartments so that two batches of compost can be started at different times.

What temperature does compost need to be to break down?

In the first stage – which lasts only a couple of days – micro organisms that thrive at 20-45 °C (68-113 °F) begin to break down the biodegradable compounds and the temperature within the compost can quickly rise to over 40 °C (104 °F).

What is the purpose of micro organisms in composting?

Micro organisms – tiny living creatures invisible to the naked eye – feed on the decaying food, plant matter, and other organic materials and help transform it into a nutrient-rich soil additive. Nature has been composting since the beginning of time, and many cultures throughout history have embraced the practice.

Why should compost not be used?

There are, however, some items that should not be composted as they may either take too long to decay, create an unpleasant smell, or contaminate the soil with harmful chemicals:

How long does it take for a FCMP tumbling composter to aerate?

As long as the mixture balance is correct, the FCMP tumbling composter will create ready-to-use compost in as little as 2 weeks.

What are compost bins made of?

Material. Most compost bins are made out of plastic, wood, or metal, with the majority of commercially available composters manufactured from dark-colored recycled plastic. Dark plastic bins are ideal for absorbing heat from the sun and preventing moisture loss. DIY compost bins are commonly made of wood, metal, or stone.

How many gallons of compost is in a FCMP tumbler?

If you need a consistent supply of fresh compost to feed your flowers and vegetable garden, then the FCMP tumbling composter will fit the bill. At 37 gallons, it holds plenty of kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and other yard and garden waste—yet despite its ample size, this tumbler is easy to turn.

What is the difference between a tumbler and a stationary compost bin?

Tumbling vs. Stationary. There are two main types of compost bins: stationary and tumblers. Stationary bins have a larger capacity than tumblers and are a good choice for homeowners who have a lot of yard waste such as weeds, leaves, and grass clippings.

How does an enclosed compost bin work?

Enclosed compost bins offer a neat, easy solution that creates compost faster than traditional piles by regulating the temperature, moisture, oxygen, and bacteria in the organic materials to help them break down faster. Compost bins come in a variety of shapes and sizes; the best one for you depends on how much organic waste you produce, ...

What is worm compost?

Worm composting employs red wiggler worms to consume the organic waste and produce compost in the form of “castings” (worm manure)— a super-rich, fertile compost loaded with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and many micronutrients.

What is the best compost bin?

Compost bins come in a variety of shapes and sizes; the best one for you depends on how much organic waste you produce, the amount of space you have, and how you plan to use the finished product. Keep reading to understand how to zero in on your ideal compost bin—and find out why the following made our list as the best compost bins: 1 BEST OVERALL: FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter 2 BEST FOR YARD DEBRIS: Algreen Products Soil Saver Classic Compost bin 3 BEST FOR KITCHEN SCRAPS: Utopia Kitchen Stainless Steel Compost Bin 4 BEST FOR A SMALL KITCHEN: SCD Probiotics All Seasons Indoor Composter 5 BEST FOR URBAN GARDENERS: Worm Factory 360 WF360B Worm Composter

How long does it take for static pile compost to produce?

Aerated static pile composting produces compost relatively quickly (within three to six months). It is suitable for a relatively homogenous mix of organic waste and work well for larger quantity generators of yard trimmings and compostable municipal solid waste (e.g., food scraps, paper products), such as local governments, landscapers, or farms. This method, however, does not work well for composting animal byproducts or grease from food processing industries.

How cold does windrow compost work?

Windrow composting can work in cold climates. Often the outside of the pile might freeze, but in its core, a windrow can reach 140° F. Leachate is liquid released during the composting process. This can contaminate local ground water and surface-water supplies. It should be collected and treated.

What is aerated windrow compost?

Aerated or turned windrow composting is suited for large volumes such as that generated by entire communities and collected by local governments, and high volume food-processing businesses (e.g., restaurants, cafeterias, packing plants). It will yield significant amounts of compost, which might require assistance to market the end-product. Local governments may want to make the compost available to residents for a low or no cost.

How to aerate compost pile?

Turning the pile, placing the pile on a series of pipes, or including bulking agents such as wood chips and shredded newspaper all help aerate the pile. Aerating the pile allows decomposition to occur at a faster rate than anaerobic conditions. Care must be taken, however, not to provide too much oxygen, which can dry out the pile and impede the composting process.

What is the key element in compost?

Microorganisms living in a compost pile need enough moisture to survive. Water is the key element that helps transports substances within the compost pile and makes the nutrients in organic material accessible to the microbes. Organic material contains some moisture in varying amounts, but moisture also might come in the form of rainfall or intentional watering.

Why are small particles important in compost?

Grinding, chipping, and shredding materials increases the surface area on which microorganisms can feed. Smaller particles also produce a more homogeneous compost mixture and improve pile insulation to help maintain optimum temperatures (see below). If the particles are too small, however, they might prevent air from flowing freely through the pile.

How to get rid of odors in compost pile?

If the air blower draws air out of the pile, filtering the air through a biofilter made from finished compost will also reduce any of the odors.

How does compost help plants grow?

Compost speeds up the growth of plants by giving them easy access to nutrients. Composts can be formulated for specific plants. You can get mixes for cactus, roses, lawns, veggies, and herbs. These formulations will make your plants flourish and look great, which is what every gardener wants.

What is compost made of?

This compost comes in a form of dehydrated pellets. It will improve your soil texture with a mix of 4-2-3, nitrogen to phosphorus to potassium. The mix is easy to use and builds humus fast. Use it on your beds, borders, shrubs, trees, lawns, and hedges. It is also great to use in your veggie garden.

What is the composition of mycorrhizae?

The formula also contains 11% humic acid. Humic acid also helps plants to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. The composition of the compost is a 5-5-5 formulation.

What is the best compost for no odor?

Best compost for no odor: Four Shovels Pure Organic Ready To Use. One drawback about loading up your garden with compost is the smell. But, with Four Shovels, you are assured of a compost that is odor-free. This rich, dark compost is ready-to-use and is a great all-purpose mix. It is ideal for organic gardens.

What does a green thumb do?

Experienced people with green thumbs will tell you that they are a great source of nutrients and beneficial microbes.

How to make worm tea?

This mix is ideal to make worm tea. Place a large scoop into a coffee filter and tie closed. Place the filter into a bucket of water and allow the nutrients to filter into the water for a few days. You have a rich mixture that you can spray onto plants or pour onto your soil.

What is all purpose compost?

An all-purpose compost is a must-have for any garden. All-purpose compost can be used in beds, borders, on grass, for hedges, and trees. It is also ideal for containers, hanging baskets, and pots. It is your go-to compost when you need to give your plants a boost.

What can you leave out of compost?

One of the biggest categories is animal byproducts: meat, fish, egg, dairy, and poultry products. You may think animal byproducts such as these are alright to compost, but they can actually breed bacteria, cause odor problems, and result in pests .

What is brown matter in compost?

Brown matter provides your compost with carbon, an ingredient that's essential to the proper breakdown of materials. When it comes to composting, green matter refers to any waste product that has some semblance of moisture to it or was recently growing.

What are the ingredients in compost?

In order to be successful, composting experts recommend that all "batches" of compost contain three ingredients: brown matter, green matter, and water. Brown matter includes materials such as twigs, branches, paper, and cardboard—basically anything dry or woody. In most cases, items in the "brown" category will be naturally brown, ...

What is the toxin in a black walnut tree?

The same goes for leaves or twigs from black walnut trees—they contain the toxin juglone, which is known to harm many plants.

Can you compost a bear?

If you live in an area that is especially prone to wildlife, you may want to steer clear of composting anything that is particularly delicious to bears, raccoons, and wolves, unless you have a very secure compost bin.

Is composting good for the environment?

Composting is a great habit, both for your home and the environment. Food scraps and yard waste make up more than 30 percent of what we throw away on a yearly basis, and much of that "garbage" can be put to better use as compost.

Can too much acidity in compost harm bacteria?

Likewise, too much of a good thing can also be an issue. A bit of citrus is fine, but too much acidity in your compost mixture ( like from oranges, tomatoes, lemons, and more) can actually begin to harm the beneficial bacteria in your mixture.

How much does a FCMP tumbling composter weigh?

Weighing approximately 30lbs with a 37-gallon capacity, the FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter can tackle the typical amount of organic yard waste generated by a medium household of four people.

What is the lightest compost bin?

Though the Geobin Compost Bin which is made from 50% recycled polyethylene plastic is among the lightest models out there, don’t let the 7lb weight fool you!

What is the advantage of a closed composter?

The biggest advantage of this basic kind of closed composter is how efficiently it makes both first-in & first-out composting a breeze, which a tumbling composter cannot do.

How long does it take to turn compost into compost?

And with internal mixing bars which significantly speed up the curing process, you can convert organic scraps into rich, nutritious, fertile compost for your property in only 4-6 weeks!

What is a Behrens RB20?

Behrens RB20 Trash Burner/Composter is great for both composting and back yard rubbish burning of paper & boxes.

What is a spin bin?

As what its name might suggest, this unit by Spin Bin is a big-sized single-chambered barrel swiveling on a solid metal frame.

How tall is a composter?

With the height of 44 inches and the capacity of 10.72 cubic feet, it allows you to effortlessly access the composter & load it with a whole bunch of food, weeds, stray leaves, organic garden scraps, or kitchen scraps.