Gardener’s Video Hits 1M Views as He Converts Trash Can into a “Speed Composter”
July 15, 2023
source: Youtube/The Millennial Gardener
Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and nourish your garden, but it can often be a daunting task. The Millennial Gardener, a visionary in sustainable gardening, has discovered a brilliant solution to speed up the composting process using a simple trash can. By following his innovative method, you can transform organic waste into nutrient-rich compost quickly and efficiently. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide and unleash the gardening genius within you!
According to him, to build your own rapid composter, you will need the following materials:
- 1 32-gallon or 121 L trash bin (available for $24.48 at Lowe’s)
- Shovel
- 2-inch saw bit
- 7/8-inch or 2.2 cm drill bit
- Grass clippings
- Dried leaves and pine needles
- Sod
- Kitchen scraps
Preparation:
Gather all the materials needed for the project. Once you have everything ready, choose a suitable spot in your garden for the composter. Prepare the area by digging a hole where the trash can will be placed.
Setting up the Trash Can:
Turn the trash can upside down and use the 2-inch saw bit to drill 7 holes at the bottom of the bin. These holes will facilitate drainage and aeration. Next, create four vertical holes around the sides of the trash can, allowing oxygen to enter while preventing critters from gaining access.
Installing the Trash Can:
Place the trash can into the hole you dug, ensuring it sits a few inches above the ground. Secure it in place to prevent any movement.
Adding the Ingredients:
Begin the composting process by layering the ingredients inside the trash can. Start with grass clippings, using approximately 5 gallons. Follow this with dried leaves and pine needles, then add some sod and kitchen scraps. Mix all the components thoroughly. If the sod appears dry, water the compost to maintain proper moisture levels.
Securing the Composter:
Replace the lid of the trash can and ensure it is securely fastened. This will prevent critters from accessing your compost while creating an environment conducive to rapid decomposition.
Monitoring and Maintenance:
Regularly monitor your rapid composter every few weeks and months. Add additional kitchen scraps as necessary and mix the compost with your hands to facilitate decomposition and aeration. By actively maintaining your compost, you will witness impressive results.
The Reward: Black Gold!
After approximately 60 days of diligent monitoring and maintenance, you will witness the transformation of your organic waste into “black gold” compost. The end product should be rich and black, ready to nourish your garden and promote robust plant growth.
Additional Tips from The Millennial Gardener:
- When drilling holes at the bottom of the trash can, be careful not to drill too many as it can weaken the structure.
- To keep pests out, refrain from making big holes on the sides.
- Make sure there are holes for adequate air circulation. Without them, you might experience slow decomposition due to lack of oxygen.
Thanks to the ingenious technique of The Millennial Gardener, composting has never been easier or more efficient. By repurposing a trash can, you can create a rapid composter that produces nutrient-rich compost in a matter of weeks. This cost-effective and eco-friendly method allows you to reduce waste, enhance your garden’s soil quality, and contribute to a greener future. Start your composting journey today and unleash your gardening genius!