Alternative Ways to Make Compost

Compost is gold in the garden. It adds valuable nutrients and microorganisms to the soil, improves soil structure, and naturally recycles garden waste. There are many situations in which a compost bin or pile just isn’t in the cards. In certain neighborhoods, compost piles are banned altogether, either for aesthetic reasons or for concern over any pests they might attract. In some cases, a pile is allowed, but only certain things are allowed to be composted. Even if composting is allowed, many people have tiny yards, or no yard at all, and can’t afford the space a large pile needs. If these situations sound familiar, compost is still possible. You just need to think outside of the bin!

Here are some ideas:

• Use a plastic trash can as a compost bin.

This is a good solution for those who don’t have room for a pile, or for gardeners who are determined to make compost even when piles are not allowed. All you need is an inexpensive thirty-two gallon trash can with a snap-on lid. It is best to buy a new one for composting. Using a drill with a 1 inch spade bit, drill holes all over the can, about six inches apart. Do the same to the lid, as well as the bottom. The holes will allow for air circulation, as well as letting rainfall into the pile. Place the trash can wherever space is available. Then, fill the can with grass clippings, leaves, fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, weeds (before they’ve set seed), twigs, and any other garden waste that has been left untreated with chemicals. The pile can be turned by either digging into the can with a pitchfork or small shovel and turning the contents, or by laying the can on its side and rolling it around a few times.

• Compost in a plastic storage bin.

If space is even too limited for a trash can compost bin, use a plastic storage container. The bin should be at least eighteen gallon capacity or larger. Drill a series of half-inch holes along the sides and lid of the bin. On the bottom, use a utility knife to make several one-inch slits to allow for drainage. Place torn newspaper in the bottom of the bin, and then layer yard and kitchen waste on top of that. Give the contents a turn every one to two weeks, and within a couple of months, you’ll have compost. This bin will work well anywhere outdoors.

• Vermicompost!

So, there’s no outdoor space available for composting? Use a small plastic storage bin (ten to fifteen gallon capacity) and drill small holes on all sides of the bin. Around thirty holes will suffice. It would also be a good idea to have a spare lid to place under the bin. It will catch any moisture from the worm bin, which can then be used as liquid fertilizer. You will need worms. Red Wigglers, specifically, because they eat fresh food and will make short work of any kitchen scraps. One pound of worms will consume about one-half pound of kitchen waste per day, so plan accordingly. Worms can be purchased online, or you can contact your county extension office or Master Gardener program for worm sources. Place shredded newspaper on the bottom of the bin, followed by the worms, then any kitchen scraps you have. Use vegetable and fruit peels and scraps, coffee grounds, crushed egg shells (wash thoroughly before adding), and used tea bags. Keep adding kitchen waste, and in a matter of weeks, you’ll have vermicompost.

Anyone, no matter the restrictions, can compost. Your garden, whether it is a plot capable of feeding a family of four, a small balcony herb garden, or a collection of African violets, will thank you.

For More Information on Compost, Check Out These Articles:

• Vermiculture and Worm Composting by Sally Morton
• Compost: Organic Fertilizer by Sally Morton