Compost Tumblers

What are Compost Tumblers?

So what’s all the talk about compost tumblers vesus the traditional composting bin, compost barrels, or compost open piles? Afterall, if we can get the nutrient-rich “black gold” quality of compost, why should we shell out the extra dough?

A compost tumbler is basically a drum or barrel that is placed on a stand fitted with  a crank, allowing you to roll the compost around.  This is done periodically similar to what is done with a pile.  What’s neat is, the composting materials are all contained so the entire process is kept tidy. This would certainly appeal to city dwellers, folks in urban and subrurban areas where space is an issue.  Regardless, these drums can be heavy and difficult to move around.

There are four categories to choose from:

1. Center-axel drum - this is a vertically mounted drum that has a center axis which allows for spinning, nothing more.
2. Crank operated drum- looks like a regular drum placed horizontally. A crank is provided for the turning the drum.
3. Base rolling drum- simple drum that literally rolls on the ground.
4. Roll around Spheres - similar to the base rolling but spherical in shape.

Do these tumblers work?

Most manufacturers suggest 14 days is all you really need for compost to develop.  In our tests, it’s more like 10-11 weeks. Time-wise, there is no real advantage despite having better control of moisture in the compost tumblers.  If you’re on a budget, you have patience to wait, stick with the traditional composting piles, or even compost bins.  The compost tumblers are really not necessary in your garden. Many are quite expensive, depending on what models you choose.