How to Build a Garden Compost Unit
Composting is a great way to reduce the amount of solid waste you need to dispose of. Before you start composting, you will need a sturdy composting unit to facilitate the decomposition of your material. If you want to construct your own composting bin, first decide what style of bin you want to construct.
- Decide what size compost unit you want to build. A portable bin might be ideal for those in apartments given the space constraints. Note that the smaller the bin, the more time it will take the material to break down because of the lack of aeration. Write down the measurements of how wide, deep and tall you wish your compost bin to be.
- Clear a rectangular area the size of your compost unit’s footprint. This is where the compost bin will sit.
- Follow your desired measurements that you laid out in the first step. Mark off the square dimensions of your compost unit in the ground. Place a wooden post at each corner of your square.
- Tie your fencing to one of the posts using heavy wire as a tie.
- Tie the fence ends together to complete the enclosure for the compost unit.
Material List
- Four pressure-treated wooden posts, approximately 4 to 5 feet in length
- Fencing material--Snow fencing is inexpensive and works well for compost bin units. Use enough fencing to go around the entire perimeter of your compost unit.
- Heavy wire--The wire will be used to tie the fencing material to the posts.
- Pliers to cut the heavy wire into smaller lengths.
- Sledgehammer or mallet to drive the posts into the ground.