Compost bins...

[ummmm]

I've read the dos and don'ts of what you can put in them but can anyone advise me on how to start one off?

And can you use any container, like an old bin?

[TonyV]

sorry did not attach first time

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ordM5TWyFLw&feature=player_detailpage#t=64s

[carrust]

I think ummm's a bit posh to use a bucket. I bet she'd use a she-wee. lol

[ummmm]

I have used a shee wee....strange experience. It went against all my instincts...lol

ttfn - we've looked at them all and guess what...he's opted for the pallets as he can get them from work tomorrow. I'm going to paint them pink :-)

So...if we use pallets...do they have to directly onto soil?

[ttfn]

That is the best place for them ummmm. The best ones to get are those with opposing slats - vertical one side and horizontal t'other. Ideally you should pack the gap in the pallets with crumpled balls of newspaper to aid insulation and a tarpaulin cover over the top to prevent the compost being drenched by heavy rain. Seriously - get that book - you will find it pays for itself very quickly. Big Sis has got it and it is an excellent but simple guide to follow. The branding worms will appear automatically - nature is a wonderful provider!

[TonyV]

think any "water" with some salts in will work

[Maydup]

Yes straight onto the earth is best and although you need some ventilation, keep the gaps to a minimum.

[ummmm]

I'll save the book to favs ttfn and buy it tomorrow (on his card)

Thanks...you've all been brilliant... :0))

[ttfn]

Like your style! ;o)

[TonyV]

ummmm - if you going down pallet method - then put something over the top to keep it dry and warm - will upload a construction technique for pallets - can be done - depending how much room you have - would do 2 side by side - why not start small?

[ummmm]

I want to start small Tony until I start gaining in confidence...and learn a bit :-) x

[horseshoes]

Hi ummmm - absolutely NO meat - asking for trouble. I used to put potato peelings in but when I used the compost in my tubs and hanging baskets I found that all the eyes in the peelings grew just as if they were potatoes and they took all the room in the baskets and tubs, so I no longer put them in the compost bin. Similarly, when I had put tomatoes in, I had hundreds of little tomato plants everywhere in he garden.

[ummmm]

Really...now that's interesting. You became an accidental veg grower...Did you get any crop from them?