Compost bins are a necessity for quality organic gardening at home. They give you free fertilizer for your plants, an additive for your soil in the spring, and greatly reduces the amount of trash that needs to be bagged, hauled to the curb, and thrown into a landfill. There are many simple, cheap, and easy ways to make a compost bin.
I have tried several ways to make compost bins. One simple and inexpensive way is using chicken wire or a similar product. All you need is the chicken wire and a couple of longer stakes. You can make it round, square, or any shape you would like. Cut the chicken wire to the needed length and where the two ends meet, overlap them 2-3 rows and weave on of the stakes between the two and push into the ground. This holds the ends together and supports the chicken wire. Add a couple more stakes the same way at a couple more points around the bin so it will stay in place when adding product to it.
Another simple way is to use a garbage can or a plastic barrel. Simply drill a few drain holes in the bottom and I like to put just a small layer of gravel to keep the holes from plugging up. Then put your compostable items into the bin. Keep it covered but remember to stir or turn it every few days.
If you want something that is easy on the eyes because your neighbors are anal, you can buy a couple 4x4's, some lattice, and some wire screen. Place the 4x4's where the corners of the bin will be and cut the lattice to size. Before securing the lattice, staple or nail the wire screen to the inside of the lattice to prevent compost from falling through the gaps. The wire screen will hardly be visible once it is all together.
I hope this helps you figure out a way to make a compost bin to fit your needs. Composting is great in so many ways. Save money and the earth!
Remember, Mother Earth smiles when you garden!
