When it comes to an easy solution to composting in the average suburban backyard, stationary compost bins really tick many boxes. Easy to install, there are a wide range of styles and sizes that will suit most garden setups.
If you’re looking to have one shipped to your door and a quick and easy setup then a folding model will suit you the best. However the solid stationary compost bins have many features that can make them more attractive to the backyard gardener.
Sealable lids, opening doors for easy access and efficiency are just some of the features to take into consideration.
What is a Stationary Compost Bin?
There are two kinds of stationary compost bins the upright plastic composters and the wooden bay composting method.
Plastic Stationary Bins
These bins are ones that are not meant to be moved. They take up about the same amount of room as a tumbler but have a open bottom that connects to the ground.
Most compost bins that are designed like this have a much larger capacity than tumblers. For a medium garden these have the capacity to handle all your kitchen and small amounts of garden waste and particularly if you have a mulcher.
Most designs load from the top and are made from quite thin plastic. You need to ensure your compost is made from BPA free plastic and that it is food grade plastic.
In the past these compost bins have been very difficult to turn but there are now aerators that have made this a much simpler and efficient process. The Lotech Products Crank Compost Aerator is an example of the kind of implement you will need with this method of composting.
Wooden Compost Bins
These are usually cut ready to assemble and come in a range of designs. Three sections is good for these as it allows each section time to be turned and then left. The ideal size is 1m x 1m as the enclosed sides with speed up the decomposing process by building the heat.
One of the major disadvantages of this kind of system is that it is open to vermin and wildlife. However you can get models with lids that alleviate this issue. If the lid is tight fitting it will really heat up the compost and significantly speed up the composting process.