How Much Effort Do I Need to Put Into Composting?

So the last time we were together we considered spatial concerns about composting. We can now think about how much, or little, effort we want to put into our composting.


Whether composting utilizing a batch system, or a compost bin, tumbling or stacked, you’re going to want to put into it as many kitchen scraps as you produce, right? I know I do, because I’ve always felt strongly that one should try to reduce the amount of water one uses (ie. Garbage disposal, in this case) and the amount of refuse one sends off to a landfill. Reduce your impact! If I had a million dollars, I’d have wind power and solar power generating my home’s energy. I’d drive one of the newest technology in fuel efficient vehicles. Heck, I’d probably even build my home out of newspapers, tires or hay bales. But I’m not a millionaire, so I do what I can within my capacity. I like to compost all my kitchen scraps every day. So that means taking them out to the composter every day.

Here’s the point at which we can really discuss ‘effort’. Do you toss the scraps into a tumbling composter, shut the door and give it a few turns to give those organisms some fresh air? Or do you take a pitchfork and dig in to your compost pile, turning with arm, shoulder and back muscles, it to refresh the organisms? I’m fortunate enough to have a tumbling composter so that, while I’m doing my part, and I’m making great compost for my garden, it’s pretty easy to do.