Tumbler
The tumbler composting system is an enclosed composting bin or drum. As it rotates, it mixes the composting material. A tumbler is a great alternative for people who still want an outdoor system, as it can handle large amounts of organic matter. The tumbler works similarly to a one-bin compost pile, going through the mesophilic, thermophilic, and maturation phases. It is also an aerobic composting process so it will need turning but thanks to the handle on the side, turning the compost is a lot easier.
More about the One-Bin
Recipe
2-1
To create the best multi-use compost we recommend using a 2-to1 ratio of browns to greens. This layering will look like lasagna, for every two layers of high carbon rich organic material, add a layer of nitrogen (green) material.
Cycle
Temperature Phases
As an outdoor composting system, the one-bin system will go through different temperature phases. Mesophilic phase, this is where the compost will start to get warm 50-90°F. During the thermophilic phase the pile's temperature can range between 90- 120°F, this phases indicates high microbial activity. The mature phase occurs when the pile is cooling down ready to be sieved and used.
Maintence
Turning and Watering
Converting the feed stocks into compost can take 4 to 6 months, during this time you need to water and turn it. During the first month and half, the mile will need constant turning and water. You'll know if the the moisture is just right by doing the squeeze test.
Trouble Shooting
Composting doesn’t always go perfectly, but with a few simple tweaks and easy fixes!
Clumping
This problem usually occurs when the feedstocks are too wet.
Small clumps are normal. Larger clumps will breakdown by gradually adding browns or by breaking them up by hand.
Pests
Sometime you may find some visible organisms.
Organism such as works, isopods or black solider larvae and flies is totally normal and will help the the compost thrive.
Too wet
If the compost is too wet it is possible that it is not getting sufficient amount of air flow, the recipe is off or there is simply too much moisture.
The best way to solve this is by ensuring no air hole are being blocked, graddually add more brown or by taking out content and letting it dry.
Not heating up
Is your compost not heating up?
A tumbler might only get as 90-100°F. This is due to its smaller size. Increase the amount of greens or browns can help increase temperature if too low.
No composting progress
No composting change is due to the like of green material and being too dry.
Simply add more green material and more water.
Lingering Questions
Still have lingering questions?