Monthly Archives: January 2012

Compost Tumblers — Is there one in your garden’s future? (part 3 – Operating)   by Darrell Feltmate

Every compost tumbler has individual quirks that make it a good or bad design within its own category, lever action, center-axle, rolling or sphere. Look for:

• easy access. Is the door at a convenient height for loading and unloading? Is it hinged and latched or does it require a threaded knob that will be a pain to operate when it gets compost on the threads?
• air access. While all compost tumblers work by rotating air through tumbling debris, there should be good air flow from outside.
• capacity. Bigger is not always better. It requires more material for the composting process and may be harder to turn.
• gathering material. “Composting time” begins when the last material is added. It may be added a little at a time but once started, where will the next load gather? You may want a couple of compost tumblers.

Having allowed for quirks and individual taste, there are some things that are common to all compost tumblers as they are used.

• Do not bother using compost accelerators. Most people try one once and then not bother. These are a mix of bacteria and fungi that make plants rot or are someone’s “secret recipe” for speeding the process. If the pile is well built they will not hinder and if it is not well built they will not help.
• Make sure you have a good proportion of green to brown material. In a closed tumbler too much green matter will produce a slimy mess. If the pile appears to be doing so, add some dried leaves, wood shavings, straw or the like.
• While rodents, dogs, cats and the like will be closed from the tumbler, insects will not. For some reason, gnats love a compost pile. When you open the door be ready for a cloud of them.
• Keep the moisture content about that of a damp rag. Compost tumblers retain more moisture than open compost piles. If the material seems too moist, leave the door open a while and if it is too dry add a little water, tumbling the contents after every addition.
• The pile needs air. That is the reason for the tumbler in the first place. Not only rotate it frequently, but also make sure any vents or air holes are open and not clogged with organic material.

Following these simple precautions should keep the compost coming steadily from your compost tumbler and your plants will love you for it.


About the Author

Is making compost a mystery? Darrell Feltmate is an avid gardener who has been composting and gardening organically for over 25 years. His gardens have ranged from small flower beds to a half acre fruit and vegetable garden. All have been fed with compost. Come to Compost Central and have your best garden ever.