Homemade Compost Bins for the Desert

The following presentations demonstrate how a home composter might make an inexpensive composting set up which would be appropriate for the desert. A few things to keep in mind for all systems:

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• Desert composting bins should be low porosity (fewer holes), which helps decrease evaporation of moisture from the decomposing organic materials.

• The top of the organics in the bin should be covered with plastic after an addition is made, then the top of the bin itself should be covered.

• Ideally a bin should be placed in the shade in the Summer months.

• If shade is not available the bin may be over-draped with two layers of shade fabric.

• It may be useful to see our Desert Composting Recommendations.

• Questions may be sent to compost-questions@nmcomposters.org.

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The Homemade Bin Systems

Instructions by John Zarola, photos by Mike Stoy.

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• Bucket in a Hole

• New Zealand Box Style Three-Bin System (includes detailed construction plans)

• Plastic Container Bin

• Wire Fencing Bin