Build a Compost Bin

Because this is an outdoor project, you may choose to use lumber rated for outdoor use and galvanized nails, which will make your bin last longer. Your compost will decompose faster if it is turned often and if air can circulate in the container. Side boards on the bins are arranged to allow air flow, while the front and middle slats slide out for easy access.

1. To make the frame, cut two 6' 2 x 4s down to 57 3/4" in length. These will be the joists. Cut the third 2 x 4 into three 24" lengths for the headers and the middle. Mark the center of the joists, which is where the middle will be nailed. Secure the headers to the two joists using 3 1/4" nails. Place the third 24" 2 x 4 in the middle, and nail to joists. You should have a 57 3/4" x 27" rectangle.



2. Cut the piece of plywood to 57 3/4" x 27" to create the bottom. Nail onto the 2 x 4 frame with 2 1/2" nails.



3. Clamp the two deck posts to the rear corners of the frame. The bottom of the bin should be flush with the top of the notch in the deck post. (The notch should be facing inward.)
   
   
   
4. Using a framing square, make sure all posts are perpendicular to the frame. Secure with 3 1/4" nails. Repeat with the two outer front posts. Measure and mark the center of the front and rear joists and the centers of the remaining posts. Nail remaining deck posts to frame. (See detailed drawing).



5. Using three of the 10' 1 x 6s, cut six 57 3/4" long pieces for back slats. Starting at the bottom and spacing them about 1/2" apart, mark where each will go. Secure slats to rear deck posts with 2 1/2" nails. The ends of the slats should be flush with the sides of the rear posts.



6. Using three of the 1 x 6s, cut 12 (27" long) pieces for side slats. Use six for each side. Starting at the bottom, space slats about 1/2" apart, and mark where each will go. Secure to posts with 2 1/2" nails.



7. Using the six 8' 1 x 2s, cut 12 (37" long) pieces to make the runners for the front and middle tracks. For front runners, stand two boards upright on the side of each front post. Make the 1 x 2s flush with the outer edges of the deck post. Clamp to deck posts, then nail in place. This forms a sandwich with a track in the middle. Repeat for the other front half and middle.



8. Using five of the 10' 1 x 6s, cut 21 (23 1/2" long) pieces to make the front and middle slats.

Combine an equal amount of grass clippings, kitchen scraps, fallen leaves, twigs, and garden debris to start.

• Layer these brown and green ingredients, or chop and mix them together.



• Spread 1" of garden soil on top of the organic material to charge the compost.



• Water each time another layer is added.



• Keep the compost in a moist, but not wet, area.



• Frequently turn over the contents in your heap, making sure that leaves on the outer edges reach the center.



• Compost will be garden ready in 3 to 12 weeks.



• If you need compost fast, check at your local Lowe's store for prebagged versions.

Originally published in Lowe's Creative Ideas for Home and Garden July/August 2001 ©SPC Custom Publishing.