22 Ways to Put Your Composting & Turning Small Equipment on Autopilot

Composting and turning small equipment can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With the right equipment and a little know-how, you can automate the process and make it a breeze.

Here are 22 tips to help you get started:

1. Invest in a good compost bin. This is the most important piece of equipment you'll need. A good compost bin will keep your compost contained and aerated, which will help it break down more quickly.
2. Add the right materials to your compost bin. Compost is made up of organic matter, such as food scraps, yard waste, and paper products. The best compost is made up of a mix of brown and green materials. Brown materials are carbon-rich, while green materials are nitrogen-rich. A good rule of thumb is to add two parts brown materials to one part green materials.
3. Keep your compost bin moist. Compost needs moisture to break down. You can add water to your compost bin as needed, or you can simply let it collect rainwater.
4. Turn your compost regularly. Turning your compost helps to aerate it and speeds up the decomposition process. You should turn your compost every few weeks, or more often if it's very wet.
5. Use a compost thermometer. A compost thermometer can help you to monitor the temperature of your compost. The ideal temperature for composting is between 140 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Be patient. Composting takes time. Don't expect your compost to be ready overnight. It can take several months, or even longer, for compost to fully decompose.

Here are some additional tips for composting and turning small equipment:

• Use a compost starter. A compost starter can help to speed up the decomposition process. Compost starters are available at most garden centers.
• Cover your compost bin. Covering your compost bin will help to keep out pests and animals.
• Don't add meat or dairy products to your compost bin. Meat and dairy products can attract pests and animals.
• Don't add diseased plants to your compost bin. Diseased plants can spread disease to your other plants.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Composting and Turning Small Equipment

• Overloading your compost bin. Don't overload your compost bin. This will make it difficult for the compost to break down.
• Adding too much water to your compost bin. Too much water can make your compost slimy and anaerobic.
• Not turning your compost regularly. Turning your compost regularly is essential for aeration. Without aeration, your compost will not break down properly.
• Adding the wrong materials to your compost bin. Avoid adding meat, dairy products, or diseased plants to your compost bin. These materials can attract pests and animals, and they can also spread disease.

FAQs About Composting and Turning Small Equipment

Q: What is the best way to compost small equipment?

A: The best way to compost small equipment is to use a small compost bin or a tumbler. Small compost bins are available at most garden centers. Tumblers are a great option for composting small amounts of organic material.

Q: How often should I turn my compost?

A: You should turn your compost every few weeks, or more often if it's very wet. Turning your compost helps to aerate it and speeds up the decomposition process.

Q: How do I know when my compost is ready to use?

A: Your compost is ready to use when it is dark brown or black in color and has a crumbly texture. It should also have a sweet, earthy smell.

Q: What can I do with my finished compost?

A: Finished compost can be used to amend your soil, mulch your plants, or make compost tea. Compost is a great way to add nutrients to your soil and improve its structure.

4 Useful Tables for Composting and Turning Small Equipment

Table 1: Composting Materials

Table 2: Compost Bin Sizes

Table 3: Compost Turning Frequency

Table 4: Compost Uses