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Re: Compost

Square Foot Gardening List - http://www.flinet.com/~gallus/sqft.html

At 5:06 AM -0800 3/31/0, Katherine Wendt wrote:
>But in this pristine environment I was thinking about buying one
>of those $80 black plastic bins. Is this just a waste of money? Is it silly
>to do it at all if I can't do three piles?

My experience is that the black plastic bins are really best for handling
kitchen waste, because of the limited volume.  Even then, if you live in an
area with much winter and slow microbial activity, the black bin will
likely get full over the cold season.  Although not sold on that basis,
they're perhaps really better suited to become worm bins.  (I highly
recommend putting worms to work for you....)
Meanwhile, the aestetics of the suburban compost pile:  My attitude is that
if you create something organized and keep the pile area tidy, who can
complain when compared to the lawn junk strewn about many backyards?
I'm happy to look out on my compost bins.  It's money in the carbon bank to
me.
There are many good options and designs for setting up bins--from recycled
components to fancier structures.  If you need to, your budget can go for
lattice screens or plantings.
Plus, if your compost system is tidy and well-managed it can be an
educational opportunity for your neighbors.  Some much suburban yard waste
is needlessly carted up and hauled away.  Meanwhile, the plants and gardens
are hungry for the organic matter and microbial benefits that the material
can provide.  (Long lecture, self-edited.)  ;)
No, you don't need the classic three piles.  You can have a static one
even.  But the compost process will happen faster with aeration.
Which brings me to the one aestetic consideration which should concern your
neighbors.  They don't want to smell your compost pile and shouldn't have
to.  Build it right, with enough air for a slow heating, and reap the
benefits.
-Ted     SE Pennsylvania   zone 6B


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