Guide to Speedy Composting Using a Tumbler: Simplified Steps
In the realm of gardening, compost tumblers have gained popularity as an effective and space-saving method for composting. This article will guide you through the process of using a compost tumbler, while also highlighting some popular options available on the market.
## Steps to Use a Compost Tumbler Effectively
### 1. **Select a Good Location** - Place your compost tumbler in a convenient spot near your kitchen but far enough not to be a nuisance. - Choose a sheltered, sunny location to enhance microbial activity.
### 2. **Layer Green and Brown Materials** - **Green Materials**: Include kitchen scraps, fresh grass clippings, and weeds without seeds. These are high in nitrogen. - **Brown Materials**: Add dry leaves, shredded paper, twigs, and other carbon-rich materials. Aim for a roughly 50:50 ratio of green to brown materials.
### 3. **Add Small Amounts of Water** - Compost needs moisture to break down. Add water if the materials are too dry or if there’s been no rain recently. Avoid overwatering.
### 4. **Regular Turning** - **Tumble the Compost**: Rotate the tumbler regularly to introduce oxygen, which fuels microbial activity and speeds up decomposition. - **Frequency**: Turn the tumbler every few days to ensure all materials are well aerated.
### 5. **Monitor Temperature and Odor** - **Temperature**: Compost piles can get hot. Monitor the temperature to ensure it doesn’t get too high, which can kill beneficial microbes. - **Odor**: If your compost starts to smell, it might be too wet or lacking oxygen. Add more brown materials or turn the pile more frequently.
### 6. **Add Compost Activators (Optional)** - Consider adding compost activators like animal manure, blood and bone, or lime to enhance microbial activity.
### 7. **Harvest Your Compost** - Once the compost is ready (usually within a few months), it will be dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling. Spread it around your garden beds to enrich the soil.
## Popular Compost Tumbler Options
The Jora JK270 composter has a capacity of 9.5 cubic feet, making it a good choice for those with a moderate amount of waste. The EZ Compost Wizard Jr. is a 7 cubic foot compost tumbler, ideal for smaller spaces, while the EZ Compost Wizard offers a larger 12 cubic foot capacity. For those with a substantial amount of waste, the Jora JK400 composter, with a capacity of 14.2 cubic feet, may be the best fit.
Decorative ceramic compost keepers and stainless steel compost keepers are available for those who prefer a more aesthetically pleasing option. These keepers are compatible with both the EZ Compost Wizard and the Jora JK series of composters.
By following these steps and choosing the right compost tumbler for your needs, you can efficiently turn food scraps and yard waste into valuable fertilizer for your garden. Happy composting!
Embracing a sustainable lifestyle, consider transforming your home into a green one by incorporating a compost tumbler into your home-and-garden setup. This appliance not only aids in eco-friendly composting but also supports sustainable-living practices. With various compact and aesthetically pleasing options available, such as decorative ceramic or stainless steel keepers, you can make a stylish addition to your garden while improving your soil's fertility.
