Compost Tumblers are fantastic for creating compost quickly and efficiently. They come in a range of shapes,
weights and sizes and are particularly suited to gardeners with back problems. Let’s consider which one is right for you and your garden.
What is a Compost Tumbler?
A compost tumbler is defined by the fact that it can be turned, and this raises the very real concern about how easy it is to turn the tumbler. No matter which style you choose the tumbler must be easy to turn.
Broadly speaking there are two different kinds of tumblers: horizontal and vertical.
Even though you would like the barrel to be sealed off to discourage vermin, it is important that there is ventilation so that the composting process can take place.
Aeration is a key component in the composting process and all piles need to be turned.
This is why the tumbler is a good idea for people who have back problems. The turning of a compost heap can involve forking over the organic material to move it from the inside to the outside of the container. With a tumbler this can be much easier.
When looking at which compost tumbler is best for you remember that the bin will be quite full by the end of the process and can be really heavy. It is important that the structure is sturdy enough to support this weight otherwise you will be only half filling it.
Types of tumbling action
There are a vast array of ways to tumble your compost. One of the simplest and perhaps most common style is a self-rolling compost bin that rotates on a base. This method is great for small to medium amounts of compost. We use one of these in conjunction with several stationary bins.
There are also barrel style models that you roll on a base. These are handy as you can take them off the base and roll them to the place in the garden where you want to empty them. They are a little unwieldy and awkward during this process. Most of these have small wheels on a base/stand to make rolling it during the composting process easier.
Some compost bins rotate around a central axis, these are generally easy to rotate and are also available in dual chambers. This feature is great if you are composting a larger amount of waste.
Crank handle tumbler bins are easy to turn but once again you need to be careful of how much weight you put in the
actual bin. The handle can be a weakness in some models and may break under pressure. However, the drum is still easy in most designs to turn even without the handle.
Size does matter
With composting the larger the container, the more efficient it will be in heating up the organic material. But when considering the size of your compost you also need to consider how much organic material your family and your garden will provide to put in it.
If you are continually buying hay or straw mulch to add to the bin you defeat some of the purpose of producing your own which is to do something for the planet while providing a cost effective solution to building up the yield potential of your soil.
You also need to consider what you are going to do with your organic waste while the compost in the tumbler is decomposing.
Dual tumblers are useful for this and allow one to be ‘cooking’ while you fill the other one. You can get into a rhythm with composting that lets you have fresh compost all year round.
Once again it depends on how much compost your garden requires, and it may be more efficient to have two smaller bins rather than a large capacity composter.
The Pros of Compost Tumblers
• A good tumbler makes turning your compost much easier
• Easy solution to keeping rats, other vermin and wildlife in general, out of your compost.
• Saves your back. But choose the style your going to use carefully.
• Efficient use of space in a small garden
• If you have a lot of grass clipping it will allow you to aerate it more efficiently but always consider the balance of Greens and Browns.
• Clean and attractive and looks good in a small garden.
• Highly efficient at aeration.
The Cons of Compost Tumblers
• Beware of promises to complete in a couple of weeks as it may not be high quality. Because you are putting fresh material in with that which is already decomposing is may take longer.
• Unless they are very well insulated, they do their best work in summer. (Unless you live somewhere with mild winters)
• Often complex assembly.
• The cost is higher than other composting methods. However generally, the composition of the tumbler is highly durable and will last you for many years.
Best Compost Tumblers 2020
Jora Composter Tumbler JK270
Price: highly priced.
Size/Capacity: 70 gallon
This large capacity compost tumbler is big enough to handle a family and medium size garden’s organic waste. It is insulated which is a real advantage if you are in colder climates.
The dual chambers let one mature while you fill the second which is highly efficient in the home garden. Hardwearing and off the ground means you’ll have no problems with vermin. It’s a real workhorse!
Envirocycle Composter
Price: Modestly priced.
Size/Capacity: 35 Gallons.
This is a very solidly built composter! Made out of food safe, BPA free, UV and antioxidant material it really ticks the boxes for its environmental and durability credentials.
For a small to medium sized family garden this is a great compact size. This tumble composter is made from all recycled plastic.
FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter
Price: Very Affordable.
Size/Capacity: 37 gallons.
This is a compact compost tumbler that is small but highly effective. It’s eight sided design and large openings make emptying easy. Two convenient separate sides and constructed from recycled plastic that is BPA free and UV protected, this composter really delivers.
It is well aerated with holes but remember to roll it away from you or you will be covered in water. Its easy to roll and has a solid frame when rolling.