Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I put at the bottom of the compost bin?

  Generally speaking it is not essential to add anything in particular to the bottom a compost bin.  It is important to site your bin on open soil.  read on

• What style of bin can I use to recycle food waste without attracting small animals?

  Assumptions are made about how small animals have been attracted to gardens. Compost bins are often blamed. This is not the case. If there are rodents in the locality, they will take advantage of t... read on

• Can I start to fill my compost bin at any time of the year?

  You can start composting at any time of the year. Autumn is a popular time as many gardeners begin the tidy up in anticipation of the winter months. Spring is also a good time, as it ties in nicely... read on

• How do insects enter the compost bin?

  These insects will enter your compost bin from the soil in your garden; therefore it is recommended that your composting bin is situated on bare soil.  This will help all of the beneficial insects ... read on

• What are the best conditions for a compost heap?

   A compost heap, or compost bin, is best situated where it will get some sunshine during the day to warm it up and help with the composting process.  If you can ensure that a 50:50 mix of 'greens' ... read on

• What are the recommendations for composting when you keep chickens?

  Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) advise that if you keep poultry, you may compost your kitchen scraps at home but you must do so in an enclosed container. However, they do... read on

• Can my compost bin be secured to the ground in any way?

  There’s no easy way to secure a plastic compost bin to the ground. If your site is that exposed it may be better to build a wooden composter that you can secure with driven-in stakes. read on

• One of my bins is an old strawberry tub. Should I cover it with a piece of carpet to keep the heat in and will the holes affect the process?

  A piece of carpet or polythene laid over the surface of a compost bin a good way of retaining heat.  This is especially beneficial during the cold months when a compost bin works more slowly.   Ve... read on

• Does a compost heap need to have a lid?

  It is not essential for a compost heap to have a lid. However, a lid does help to regulate both the temperature and the moisture levels. You could easily use a piece of old carpet (preferably Hess... read on

• Can I site a compost bin in my shed?

  It is not recommended, as compostable materials have a high water content and when they break down this water is released. It then, of course, seeps out of the bottom.   read on