can I start a compost bin out of one of those 20 gallon tupperware containers? I've got one that isn't being used in our shed. how do I do it?
You could use it for collecting, but it's a little small to get the pile heating properly. Really, it rots on its own, but does much better at not smelling and producing what you want if you put the right things into it. If I were you I'd go to TheEasyGarden.com which is one of our sister sites and read up. There's also a link at the bottom of any page here. We just pile the stuff on the ground in a corner. It makes compost, but it would work quicker and better with more attention.
It probably is a little small to get it good and hot. Although you never know, depending on circumstances, it might work if it can absorb enough heat in the summer. Something I ran into using a 55 gallon barrel was not enough air flow. I had painted it black to absorb the heat, but it didn't get enough air - should have drilled more holes into it. It is actually still outside, I have just been too lazy to drag the drill out to the barn and start adding holes to the thing.
Maybe you can do worm composting instead? Also, some areas give away free compost bins, the simple plastic circular ones.
I am doing it the lazy way and just make piles in the yard.Digging holes and dumping in veggies was how I first got worms active in my barren yard. I would use that bin for red wiggler worm composting.You can find the worms online or at a local pet store. I am going to do a compost bin using a 35 gallon garbage can,which you can usually buy for $10.Mine has holes so I am already a step ahead.
