Rotline Question of the Week: Where should I position my compost bin?

There are several things to keep in mind when setting up your composting station: Sun or shade? A worm bin is best placed in the shade. The worms will not fare well in hot temperatures or during a deluge of water during a rainstorm. By placing them in the shade, they will be more protected [...]

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Rotline Question of the Week: What is a tumbler? How does it work?

Tumblers are a style of composting bin that is manually flipped, spun, rolled or crank-turned for aeration, depending on the style. These types of bins do not require turning with a pitchfork, instead, the whole compost bin is turned for aeration. The Solana Center has four different styles of tumblers at our compost demonstration site. [...]

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Rotline Question of the Week: All this rain has made my bin too wet!

Bin wetness from rain is usually a non-issue in San Diego County but recently, with the extreme rain that has fallen on our lovely County, outdoor compost bins are probably on the soggy side. Remember, optimum bin dampness is comparable to that of a wrung out sponge so if your bin is dripping, it is [...]

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“Rotline” Question of the Week: Where can I see a compost bin in action?

The Solana Center cares for a number of Compost Demonstration Sites throughout San Diego County. These sites are maintained by Master Composters and feature many different types of bins. Encinitas Solana Center for Environmental Innovation: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 – 4 p.m. San Diego Botanic Garden San Diego San Diego Zoo East County Summers Past [...]

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“Rotline” Question of the Week: How can I make my own compost bin?

Here are a couple of designs we recommend: Stackable wood bin: minimal carpentry skills needed, can use recycled lumber (as long as it is not treated) Wooden pallet bin: all you need are four wooden pallets, bolts, and latches and you’re on your way Wire mesh bin: easy to make and inexpensive Homemade designs often [...]

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“Rotline” Question of the Week: Where should I keep my compost bin?

The best place to keep your bin is in a shaded location. There is a common misconception that the sun causes the contents inside the bin to heat up but it is actually the thermophilic bacteria creating heat as they decompose the material. Keeping your bin in shaded location will help maintain the bin’s moisture. [...]

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“Rotline” Question of the Week: What’s the best way to start my compost bin?

If you are using a Smith & Hawken Biostack or other bin, you will want to fill the bin to the brim with materials when you start. Most people will stock pile materials for a couple of weeks before building the bin.  A volume of 3′ X 3′ x 3′ is ideal. Be sure  to [...]

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“Rotline”Question of the Week: How can I keep pests out of my compost bin?

There are many simple ways to ensure that pests do not enter your compost bin. One of the  most important things you can do is always make sure to bury your food in the center of the pile. Materials will break down much faster in the core of the pile. Always make sure that before [...]

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“Rotline” Question of the Week: What are the pros and cons of tumblers, stackable bins, and compost heaps?

Composting will become one of your favorite hobbies if you take the time to personalize the way you interact with your compost. With this in mind, different people will appreciate different methods of maintaining their compost piles. Many new composters have called in asking what sort of compost pile they should build for their needs. [...]

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Solana Center Truckload Compost Bin Sale!

This Saturday, October 25, the Solana Center is having a truckload compost bin sale from 9 am to 3 pm at the Water Conservation Garden located at 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr West, El Cajon, CA 92019.  So come one come all and get that compost bin you’ve always wanted! Items for sale include the Smith [...]

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