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Left side, ready. Haven't added scraps in last 3 weeks. |
I am brimming with satisfaction over my Dual Batch Rolling Composter. It's been another six weeks, and I can report another completed batch of compost is ready. This heat wave has certainly accelerated decomposition.
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Great stuff. I wish you could smell it. So fresh. |
Some helpful hints I've learned along the way since my
previous 2 composter posts:
- If you add lots of kitchen scraps, avoid adding too many (sugary) fruity bits. I added soft cherries and grapes, only to find I had a large quantity of ants invade one chamber.
- Adding kitchen scraps daily adds adequate moisture. No added water is necessary, unless you add a lot of dry brown debris.
- I found spinning the rolling bin should be done only once a week, if not less. Rolling it thoroughly, rather than one rotation or so is better than just once over.
- Cutting up thicker, leafier material aids the process.
- Do not fill the chambers to full. Fill about 2/3rds. This allows for air circulation and better tumbling of contents.
- Filling the chamber nearly full with green waste will not give you a full chamber when done.
- Keep the vents open.
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Right side - scrap side |
Since the ready chamber is not yet full, I will add compost from the kitchen scrap side to the other ready side, in order to bulk up for a
full batch in September. I plan to top-dress my garden with the left chamber's contents, leaving the right chamber to carry me through the autumn months.
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Right chamber: not ready...but getting there! |
So pleased.
I've been thinking about starting a compost bin, but hadn't gotten to it this year. Your post reminded me & gave great tips, too. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteWell, this tumbling composter makes it easy. Starting one now would give you a great batch come spring. Enjoy the process!
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