Food-grade plastic drums can easily be converted into concealed composting structures.
Composting is an easy way to recycle food scraps and produce nutrient-rich organic material to add to your lawn and garden. Unless you live in seclusion, an enclosed composting structure is the best choice and, in some cases, may be required by your homeowners association. A 55-gallon plastic drum keeps waste material concealed and helps the waste to reach higher internal temperatures for faster results. Always use a food-grade drum that hasn't contained toxic waste. Many families who compost build frames for their drums; a bin without a frame takes up less space and produces the same results. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Drill 6 or more rows of 1/2-inch holes around the barrel with the drill and hole-saw bit. The rows should cover the length of the barrel for even air distribution.
2. Cut the lid off with a reciprocating saw if your drum is the type with a fixed lid and small pour hole. Some drums have removable lids that can snap back on and will not require this step.
3. Install the hinge on one side of the lid. Install the latch opposite from the hinge so that you can open the drum when necessary and secure it when needed. Latches and hinges are usually sold with all the required hardware, which usually consists of a few screws.
4. Place the cinder blocks on level ground in a concealed area of your yard that receives plenty of sunlight. Set the drum on top of the cinder blocks.
5. Fill the drum 3/4 full of nitrogen- and carbon-rich organic material, such as leaves, grass clippings and food scraps. Just about any type of food scrap can be added, except for fats and meats, which produce a foul odor and attract wildlife.
6. Lay the drum on its side and roll it back and forth a few times to mix the organic material. Do this every few days or at least once a week for speedy compost production.
Tags: organic material, cinder blocks, food scraps