The Perfect Composting System?

[noodleroo]

It sounds like a perfect fit for a 'lasagna garden'. Google it for more info, but basically you just 'layer' your ingredients to make raised beds. You don't dig or till anything; just start with a layer of wet newspaper-several sheets thick or cardboard to mulch out the weeds. Then do a layer of hay or straw, a layer of manure, a layer of grass clippings and or kitchen scraps, a layer of mulch-whatever you would throw in a compost pile. You can do a layer of chicken litter in the middle there and it would be great! Everything just breaks down together. You can wait to plant the garden or do it right away. I planted right away and everything looks great, especially the tomatos. I'll never do a traditional garden again...

 

[Opa]

Quote:
Am I missing something? That link took me to a thread about Michigan, and I didn't see anything about composting.

Just scroll down to post 24440 pictures and instructions

 

[Airilith]

Thanks Opa! Found it

That's awesome! I'll have to keep my eyes open for similar barrels.

 

[CoyoteMagic]

50gal plastic barrel. Lay it on it's side. Cut a 2ft l___l in the side. This will be your opening. Attach a hasp to hold is shutt. Toss a couple of good sized rocks inside with your poop and bedding, spray lightly with a hose, close it up and secure hasp. Find a couple of kids to roll it around the yard

 

[nutmeg1980]

Nice! My BF has a son who would just love to do that! Thanks for the ideas, everyone. I hadn't heard of the lasagna garden, I have to try it!!

 

[CoyoteMagic]

Here you go I found pictures

This one actually sets on a roller platform

 

[flockof4]

I do the same thing as noodleroo. Layering properly can really reduce the need to turn the heap. I use one compost bin and move it from garden bed to garden bed. I usually get 3-4 piles a year. Here's a picture of my bin. It's made out of redwood and isn't treated. The wood cost me about $15 and it took about 2 hours to construct. I love compost.

 

[possumqueen]

Quote:
flockof4! Your garden shows your compost expertise! Beautiful!!!