Creating Urban Compost Bins Simplified for Garden Enthusiasts
In the heart of the city, space can often be a limiting factor for gardeners. However, with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, it's possible to create efficient composting systems that cater to urban living. Here are some eco-friendly DIY compost bin designs that are ideal for urban gardening.
Small Food-Grade Bucket Compost Bin
Using a small food-grade container, such as an old bin or even an old nappy bucket, drilled with evenly spaced holes for aeration, can make for a compact, inexpensive (under $10), and space-saving compost bin. Securing the lid with a bungee strap can help keep it closed properly.
Recycled Pallet Compost Bins
Pallets, often discarded or free, can be repurposed into sturdy, expandable compost bins. By assembling them into a cube-shaped bin with basic tools, you can create a composting system that's open enough for airflow and easy to add onto over time.
Reclaimed Brick Compost Bin
Stacking reclaimed bricks without mortar creates a breathable, sturdy enclosure for your compost, making it an ideal solution for small spaces. This method emphasizes reusing discarded materials while maintaining good aeration.
Other Eco-Friendly Tips
- Layering greens (veggie scraps) and browns (dry leaves, shredded paper) helps with airflow and speeds up the composting process.
- Adding variety to compost scraps helps the compost break down more evenly.
- Keeping the compost damp but not soggy is crucial for effective composting.
- Turning the compost regularly improves airflow and speeds up the composting process.
- Watching for pests and covering the compost with a layer of browns can help keep pests at bay.
Urban composting doesn't have to be complicated. Starting to compost in a small space is easy, and with the right materials and a bit of patience, you'll soon have nutrient-rich compost to nourish your urban garden.
[1] Small food-grade bucket compost bin: https://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Compost-Bucket/ [2] Recycled pallet compost bins: https://www.instructables.com/id/Pallet-Compost-Bin/ [3] Reclaimed brick compost bin: https://www.instructables.com/id/Brick-Compost-Bin/ [4] Additional eco-friendly tips: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/compost-tips/composting-tips-urban.htm [5] Wire mesh bin, bamboo compost bin, old tires compost bin, wooden pallet bin, metal compost tumbler, ceramic bin, under-sink bin, trash can compost bin, recycled wood, and cedar or redwood compost bin: These designs can be found on various DIY websites and gardening blogs. A simple search for "DIY compost bin" will yield numerous results for each design.
Adopting an environmentally friendly lifestyle, you might consider creating a small food-grade bucket compost bin for your urban home-and-garden, ensuring a compact, economical, and space-efficient composting system perfect for urban gardening. Another eco-friendly approach could involve repurposing recycled pallets into sturdy, expandable compost bins, which are both sturdy and open enough for good airflow, underlining the principles of urban gardening and eco-friendliness.
