Composting is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
However, buying a compost tumbler can be expensive, and many people do not have the space to accommodate one. A great solution to this problem is to make your own compost tumbler at home.
In this article, we will guide you on how to make a compost tumbler DIY style and compare it with the Grozone compost tumbler.
Table of Contents
What is a Compost Tumbler?
A compost tumbler is a container designed to hold compost and allow it to be turned easily. The tumbler rotates on an axis, and this motion aerates the compost, allowing it to decompose quickly.
This design also makes it easy to turn and mix the compost, ensuring that the entire batch is decomposed evenly.
Advantages of Using a Compost Tumbler
Using a compost tumbler has several advantages. Firstly, it is an efficient way to compost, as the rotating design allows for quick decomposition.
Secondly, it keeps the compost contained, reducing odors and pests. Finally, it is easy to turn and mix, ensuring that the compost is evenly decomposed.
Types of Compost Tumblers
There are several types of compost tumblers available in the market, including:
- Batch Compost Tumbler: This type of tumbler is designed to hold a single batch of compost. Once the batch is complete, it is removed, and a new batch can be started.
- Continuous Compost Tumbler: This type of tumbler allows you to add new material continuously while the older material decomposes.
- Vertical Compost Tumbler: This type of tumbler is designed to be mounted vertically, making it ideal for small spaces.
How to Make Your Own Compost Tumbler
Making your own compost tumbler is easy and inexpensive. Here’s what you’ll need:
Materials Required
- 55-gallon plastic drum with lid
- Drill with a ½ inch drill bit
- Saw
- Bungee cords
- Metal brackets
- Nuts and bolts
- Thermometer
- Compost
Steps to Build Your Compost Tumbler
- First, cut the drum in half lengthwise using a saw.
- Drill several holes in both halves of the drum using a ½ inch drill bit. These holes will allow air to flow through the compost.
- Use the metal brackets to attach the two halves of the drum together, creating a hinge at one end. This will allow you to easily open and close the drum.
- Drill several more holes in the lid of the drum, as well as a hole for the thermometer.
- Attach the lid to the drum using nuts and bolts.
- Use bungee cords to secure the drum to a stand or other structure, ensuring that it is stable and won’t tip over.
- Fill the drum with compost, leaving some room at the top.
- Use the thermometer to monitor the temperature of the compost. The ideal temperature for composting is between 120-160°F.
- Turn the drum every few days to mix the compost and aerate it.
How to Use Your Compost Tumbler
Using your compost tumbler is easy. Simply add organic material, such as kitchen scraps and yard waste, to the tumbler.
Keep the tumbler in a sunny spot, and turn it every few days to mix the compost and aerate it.
Monitor the temperature with a thermometer, and add water as needed to keep the compost moist. Within a few weeks, you’ll have nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
Comparison with the Grozone Compost Tumbler
The Grozone compost tumbler is a popular choice among gardeners. Here’s how it compares to the DIY compost tumbler:
Features of Grozone Compost Tumbler
- Made of heavy-duty plastic
- Comes with a crank handle for easy turning
- Includes aeration holes to promote decomposition
- Can hold up to 70 gallons of compost
- Designed to be odor-free and pest-resistant
- Comes with a warranty
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Comparison with DIY Compost Tumbler
The DIY compost tumbler is a great alternative to the Grozone compost tumbler. Here’s how they compare:
- Cost: The DIY compost tumbler is much cheaper than the Grozone compost tumbler, as it can be made with materials you likely already have at home.
- Size: The Grozone compost tumbler can hold more compost than the DIY version, making it ideal for those with larger gardens or yards.
- Durability: The Grozone compost tumbler is made of heavy-duty plastic and comes with a warranty, while the DIY compost tumbler may not last as long and does not come with a warranty.
- Ease of use: Both the DIY and Grozone compost tumblers are easy to use, but the Grozone tumbler comes with a crank handle for easy turning.
Can you use Compost Coffee Grounds?
Short answer, Yes! You’ll want to make sure you add your leftover coffee grounds to your compost pile!
It works perfectly and comes with many different benefits. It’s easy to add so that you can start composting today.
Conclusion
Composting is an eco-friendly way to reduce waste and produce nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
Making your own compost tumbler is an excellent way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
By following our guide, you can easily make your own compost tumbler and start composting today.
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