Is A Compost Tumbler The Right Choice?
Compost tumblers seem to be a convenient choice for urban dwellers, city folks and people who have a space consideration. There is the urban compost tumbler and the back porch compost tumbler that fit neatly into smaller spaces. These models also claim to decompose the material quicker. That is because of the ease of aerating the organic materials. Chances are if it’s easier to turn the tumbler, than it will probably get turned more often. Besides that, they are cleaner, pest resistant, keep the materials moister (less watering) and keep odors at bay. Also, open compost piles may be restricted by local laws and covenants, so be sure to check in your city.
There are 4 different types of compost tumblers:
Crank-operated drum. The crank-operated drum compost tumbler is a horizontally mounted drum that rests on a raised frame. The crank allows you to turn the drum easily, thus aerating and mixing the materials. Also, it’s easy to empty. All you do is put a wheel barrow underneath the drum and open the hatch. This type is the most expensive. You are paying for the ease of operation. Well worth it to many.
Center-axle drum. Another type it the center-axle drum compost tumbler. It is a vertically mounted drum that rotates around a central, horizontal axle supported by a frame. The materials are broken up and mixed by the center axle. Many models have doors on both ends for easability. The downside is emptying them can be a chore because they are mounted so low to the ground.
Base-rolling drum. A third type is the base-rolling drum compost tumbler. This is a horizontally configured compost sphere drum that rolls on a ground-level base. Some have rollers and some have drums that are suspended for easier rotation. Emptying these drums can be more difficult because they sit on the ground so you must shovel the compost out instead of letting it pour out.
Roll-around sphere. The forth kind of tumbler is the roll-around sphere compost tumbler. These are shaped like a geodesic dome that you fill with organic materials and roll around your yard for mixing and aerating. Although they sound kind of fun, they are the most difficult to empty.