Building a Garbage Can Compost Bin

Compost Bins are decomposed plant and waste materials that are gathered and broken down. The materials are piled into a bin or pile and turned a couple of times a week. You can use the soil from compost bins as fertilizer or to just boost your soil nutrients.

It takes about 6 months to 1 year of adding and turning a compost pile before it is ready to use. If you start in the Fall, you should have some fairly good soil for Spring planting.

You can create compost piles or bins in a ton of different ways. I’ve know people who have simply chosen a 5×5 square in the back corner of their yard and started their pile there. This is not the optimum way to create one because:

1. It will not stay tidy and the compost and contents are more likely to spill over into the yard
2. It will be easier for animals to intrude and use your compost pile as a feeding ground.

It makes more since to create a compost pile or bin in something that is enclosed and not easily accessible.
There are many items that you can place in your compost pile or bin, but these are the primary items. The EPA has a full page of information about how to create and add to your pile.

• Grass clipping
• Leaves
• Fireplace ashes
• Fruits and vegetables
• Coffee ground and filters
• Nut shells
• Egg shells
• Shredded newspapers

Make your own compost bin out of a trash can!
Using a large trash can with a lid, Drill 6 holes in the lid, then drill 6 holes in the bottom. Drill holes along the sides of your trash can as well – enough to provide good drainage. In total, you will probably have anywhere from 25 – 30 holes around the top, sides and bottom.

You will need something to attach to the bottom of the trash can so it can drain well. We build a simple wood platform, but I have seen people use a square wall built from concrete blocks or bricks. Basically anything that will raise the trash can off the ground. Attach your platform to the bottom of the trash can.

Start collecting items and placing them in your compost bins and turn every 2-3 days with a shovel. You can also roll the trash can along the ground to mix it.

After about 2-3 weeks, you should start to see worms in your compost pile. If you don’t, you should consider digging some up and placing them in the pile. Worms help break down the materials more quickly.
In about 6 months or so, you should have the makings of some really great soil for all your gardening needs!