Ethan Clarke
It is possible to compost using a 55-gallon plastic drum. These drums are often used for storing and transporting chemicals, so it is important to ensure that the drum has been thoroughly cleaned and is safe to use. It is recommended that the drum be drilled with holes for drainage and aeration, and that the compost mix includes materials that break down quickly, such as shredded paper or cardboard. The drum should also be placed directly on the soil and in contact with it. This method of composting is a cheaper alternative to buying a compost bin, which can cost over $50.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Size | 55 gallons is big enough to get 800-1000 temps for cold/warm composting. |
| Cost | Plastic drums can be found for free or very cheap. |
| Materials | Only use a drum that was used for something food grade or to store potable water. Do not use a drum that contained hazardous chemicals. |
| Drainage | Drill holes at the bottom for drainage to prevent liquid build-up. |
| Aeration | Drill 1" holes for aeration. Wrapping the drum in chicken wire will prevent finer material from falling out. |
| Design | Cut a door and put hinges and latches. Put it on an upside-down roller. |
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What You'll Learn
Sourcing a 55-gallon drum
There are a few ways to source a 55-gallon plastic drum. One option is to look in your local Yellow Pages under "Barrels or Drums". You can also try searching online platforms such as Craigslist or eBay, which often have listings for these items. Another option is to check with local businesses, such as restaurants or farms, as they may have drums that they are looking to get rid of. For example, a local eatery may have recently emptied a 55-gallon drum of syrup.
If you are unable to find a used drum, you can always purchase a new one. There are several companies that specialize in selling drums, such as US Plastic, BASCO (Barrel Accessories and Supply Company), and Northern Industrial Tools. These companies offer a range of new and used drums made from different materials, including plastic and metal.
When sourcing a 55-gallon drum, it is important to consider the intended use. For example, if you plan to use the drum for food storage, you will need to ensure that it is made from food-grade materials. Additionally, if you intend to store or transport hazardous materials, you must ensure that the drum meets the relevant performance standards and has the necessary certifications.
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Drilling holes for drainage
Once you have sourced a suitable drum, the next step is to drill the holes. It is recommended to drill a “crap ton” of holes to ensure proper drainage and prevent the compost from becoming too wet. The size of the holes can vary, with some suggesting 1-inch holes, while others recommend 3/4" to 1-1/2" sized holes. It is important to note that drilling too close to the edge of the drum may result in plastic residue creating a rim around the hole, preventing liquid from draining effectively.
When drilling, it is important to consider the thickness of the plastic. The walls of these drums are typically thin, about 3/16" thick, so using machine screws and nuts or reinforcement with HDPE plastic may be necessary to ensure the screws hold. It is also important to consider the placement of the holes. Drilling holes at the bottom of the drum will aid in drainage, while drilling holes around the sides will improve oxygen circulation. Raising the drum a few inches off the ground can further enhance airflow and aeration, creating a "chimney effect".
Additionally, the type of drill bit used can make a difference. A spade bit or something similar is recommended to create effective drainage holes. Covering the drainage holes with hardware cloth can also help regulate airflow and prevent unwanted materials from entering the compost. Overall, drilling a sufficient number of holes in the 55-gallon plastic drum is crucial for successful composting, ensuring proper drainage and airflow while maintaining the structural integrity of the drum.
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Using the right compost mix
Firstly, it's important to understand the basic components of a good compost mix. A healthy compost pile consists of a balance of four key ingredients: nitrogen, carbon, air, and water. Nitrogen, often in the form of food scraps and green waste, provides a food source for microorganisms, fuelling their growth and activity. Carbon, on the other hand, comes from brown waste like leaves, twigs, and cardboard, and it serves as an energy source for the microorganisms, enabling them to break down the organic matter.
When creating your compost mix, it's essential to maintain a proper carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, typically around 24-30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen. This ratio ensures that the microorganisms have enough energy and nutrients to break down the organic matter efficiently. To achieve this balance, mix your brown and green waste accordingly. For example, if you're using fresh grass clippings as a source of nitrogen, you can balance it with dry leaves or shredded cardboard as a carbon source.
It's important to avoid certain materials in your compost mix. Meat scraps, dairy products, fats/oils, pet waste, and chemically treated wood should be excluded as they can cause unpleasant odours or introduce harmful diseases or chemicals into your compost. Instead, focus on plant-based food scraps, such as fruit and vegetable waste, tea bags, and egg cartons, which are rich in nitrogen and safe to use.
Additionally, consider using a compost starter or accelerator. These additives are rich in carbon, nitrogen, and microorganisms, and they can help boost the decomposition process. While not mandatory, they can accelerate the composting process, especially if you're looking for faster results.
Finally, remember to monitor your compost pile's moisture levels and adjust as needed. A well-maintained compost pile should have the consistency of a damp sponge. If it becomes too soggy, the microorganisms will struggle to breathe, leading to rotting and unpleasant odours. Add more dry brown materials if the pile is too wet, and mix in green items and water if it appears too dry.
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Building a door and hinges
Planning and Materials
First, you will need to plan the size and placement of your door. Consider how you will be using the composter and what size of shovel or other tools you will need to fit through the door. Mark the outline of the door on the plastic drum with a carpenter's pencil. You will also need to purchase or source the following materials:
- Hinges: Choose hinges that are durable and suitable for outdoor use. A piano hinge is a good option for stability.
- Latches: You will need at least one latch to keep the door securely closed.
- Drill and drill bits: Ensure you have a drill that can create holes in plastic, as well as the appropriate drill bits.
- Plastic sheets: For added stability, you will need two pieces of ½" plastic for each hinge, cut to the length of the hinge.
Cutting the Door
Using a jigsaw, carefully cut out the marked door section. Take your time and ensure that you are wearing appropriate protective gear, including eye protection and gloves.
Drilling and Attaching the Hinges
Drill holes in the corners of the door and the drum for the hinges. Pre-drill ⅛" holes into the plastic sheets that align with the hinge holes. Install the hinges by screwing through the hinge, then the drum, and finally into the plastic sheet on the inside of the drum. This will create a secure "sandwich" effect.
Adding Latches and Handles
For added security, attach latches to the door. You can also add handles to the exterior of the drum, making it easier to open and close the door.
Testing and Adjustments
Once the door and hinges are installed, test the door's functionality. Ensure that it opens and closes smoothly and that the latches are secure. Make any necessary adjustments.
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Aeration and rolling
A 55-gallon plastic drum can be used for composting, but it is important to ensure that the drum is not previously used to store hazardous or unknown chemicals. It is also important to note that the drum will not get super hot, so it is not suitable for hot composting to kill pathogens and weed seeds.
To use a 55-gallon plastic drum for composting, you will need to drill holes in the drum for aeration and drainage. The number and size of the holes will depend on the desired level of aeration and drainage. Smaller holes can be drilled using a spade bit or a similar tool. It is recommended to drill more holes at the bottom of the drum for drainage to prevent liquid buildup and anaerobic conditions. You can also use perforated pipes, such as PVC pipes with holes drilled into them, to aid in aeration. These pipes should be placed inside the drum, reaching from the bottom to the top of the compost pile.
Another option for aeration is to poke holes into the compost pile with a bar or stick, creating vertical and horizontal holes. This method can be challenging for larger compost heaps, so using a compost aerator may be more effective. Compost aerators are tools specifically designed to introduce air into the compost heap, and they come in different varieties, such as screw-like or those with turning blades.
To further enhance aeration and drainage, you can place a layer of sticks at the bottom of the compost pile before adding your compost materials. This helps trap air and improve airflow. However, keep in mind that wood takes longer to rot, so it won't break down as quickly as other compost materials.
Additionally, covering your compost pile is important to prevent rainwater from washing away valuable nutrients. Instead of using a plastic tarp, consider using a compost fleece, which is breathable and allows steam to escape while still repelling water. This will help maintain the necessary moisture levels in your compost while also providing adequate aeration.
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Frequently asked questions
A 55-gallon drum is a suitable size for composting, but it will only be big enough to get temperatures of 800 to 1000°F, which is fine for cold/warm composting but not hot composting.
You can often find used 55-gallon drums for free or cheaply from manufacturing companies, but make sure you know what they were previously used for. Do not use a drum that has contained hazardous or unknown chemicals.
You will need to drill a lot of holes in the drum to prevent liquid from building up and to allow for aeration. You can also add a door with hinges and latches.
You can compost kitchen scraps, tea bags, egg cartons, and the occasional clump of weeds. For faster composting, use materials that have immediately available carbon and break down quickly, such as shredded paper, cardboard, or straw.
