Compost Central

Make a Garden Compost Bin

To make my three section compost bin I used

• 8 utility studs 2” x 4” x 8 feet long
• 1 8 foot length of 1x4 (2x4 would have been great but I had this around)
• 3 sections of lattice each 2 feet by 8 feet
• scrap plywood

I use regular 2x4s but have only found pressure treated lattice near me. In my case the pressure treatment seems to have had no effect on the compost. The 2x4s could be pressure treated but they seem to last about ten years in this situation without it and by that time you will likely want to compost the rotting bins and make personal improvements in the design.

I made four frames for the compost bin ends. First I cut four 2x4s in half to give 8 four foot lengths. Then I cut two 2x4's in quarters for 8 two foot lengths. Each frame was made by butt joining 2 foot lengths of 2x4 on either end of four foot 2x4s. The butt joints were reinforced with exterior plywood scrap fastened on with exterior wood glue and nails.

I cut two sections of the lattice through the center to give four sections each 2 feet by 4 feet. A circular saw works well for this but make sure to wear eye protection in case one of the staples in the lattice goes flying. One of these was attached to a side of each frame. This will only allow connection on either end of the four foot piece or to three sides if you drop the lattice a little. Most of the weight of the compost is down and this is sufficient strength to work well. At least it has for me for years.

The frames were tied together with eight foot long 2x4s. It is smart to do this where you intend the bin to stay. A friend or two can be a big help here. Stand the frames upright, lay the 2x4 along one end so the frames are evenly spaced and fasten the 2x4 to the frames. Nailing is possible but it easier to use decking screws and a portable electric drill. Do the same to the other end and then roll the whole thing over. Fasten a third 2x4 or a 1 x 4 across the end to tie the whole thing together. A 2' by 8' section of lattice goes across the back.

This leaves a three bin system open at the front. If you wish more bins just extend the idea. Doors can be easily rigged to this and will give neater appearance to the project as it prevents spills. It could be a very good idea in suburban areas. These bins are 31 inches high which is lower than the recommended 36 inches for a compost pile. However, they are easily piled a few inches higher than the sides and the first time you try to heave the twenty-fifth fork load of composting material over the side of the bin, 31 inches will seem like plenty. A 32” x 31” x 48” bin gives the magic 27 cubic foot amount for good composting, especially for a hot pile.