There are many types of compost bins. Each of the compost bin types has unique features and uses. This simple list of compost bins should help you understand some of the composting options available to you.
Compost Pile, Compost Heap, The No-Bin Compost Bin
OK, so you might think I am crazy to say no bin is a type of bin. Bear with me. The choice to not use a compost bin is a real choice. You can compost by simply throwing your yard waste in a pile. A compost pile is a good choice if you have large amounts of waste and a large area to work with.
Worm Bin:
A worm bin is generally a smaller scale compost bin. However, the amount of material composted can be substantial. It also works best with food scraps rather than yard waste such as garden trimmings. A worm bin can be kept in an apartment or left outdoors, but it must be in a location that does not get too hot or too cold.
Hoop Compost Bin:
Hoop bins are simple and inexpensive. The hoop can be wire mesh from a home improvement store or and adjustable commercial plastic bin. Hoop bins are tidy, easier to move and make turning the compost easy. simply open the bin, place it in a new location and fill it up again.
One Bin Compost System:
A one bin compost system is as simple as the name implies. If you are starting with composting creating a single bin is a great beginning. The bin can be a hoop bin, wooden slat bin, or any type of bin you can imagine that acts as a container for your yard and kitchen waste. The one bin system is a good choice because as your needs grow you can change to a two or three bin system.
Moulded Continuous Composter:
A moulded continuous composter is commonly a manufactured bin. Most are made from recycled plastic and work well. Composting material is added from the top and the completed compost is harvested from the bottom. Many of the moulded bins have a space-age look to them.
Multi-Bin Compost System:
A multi-bin compost system consist of Two Bin Compost or Three Bin Compost Systems. The idea here is that a single bin is filled completely. After the bin is filled you can choose to let it sit and complete, or you can turn it. To turn it, simply take the contents of the full bin and move it to the empty bin. As one bin gets full start filling the second bin and so on. A multi-bin composting system requires more space and is useful when lots of waste is generated.
Compost Tumbler:
A compost tumbler can create compost in as little as a few weeks. It is important to note that the speed of decomposition depends on the proper circumstances. The Compost tumbler is filled (partially filled, not stuffed full), then turned daily. Most tumblers have some turning apparatus attached, while some can be rolled around the yard. A compost tumbler requires daily attention and a few quick turns to aerate the compost.
Compost Spinner:
A compost spinner is another name for a compost tumbler.
Sheet Composting:
Sheet composting is a good choice for large gardens. Spread a thin layer of material in your garden area and mix it in the soil with a rototiller, garden hoe or garden fork. Sheet composting works best with chopped organic material and is best done in the fall so it is prepared in the spring when you are ready to plant.
Trench Composting:
Trench composting is a good choice for moderate sized gardens. Simply dig a trench about 8 inches deep and put your waste in the hole. Cover the hole, wait a few months and plant directly above the trench. The waste will have rotted in a couple months and will provide nutrients to plants as they grow.
Slatted Compost bin:
A slatted compost bin is usually a square wooden compost bin. The slats create spaces around the bin to allow for air circulation and help contain the compost within the bin. Many slatted compost bins help keep a tidy area and provide a natural look.
Rolling Compost bin:
A rolling compost bin is a type of compost tumbler. A rolling compost bin is rolled around to mix the compost. Some rolling compost bins are stationary build on a set of rollers, wheels, or balls. Others are mobile and can be rolled around the yard. This allows the composter to be relocated to disperse the compost where it is needed.
I know there are other names and types of bin. Tell me about some in the comments below and I’ll keep working on this list. The goal is to create a composting bin glossary here.
