I'm thinking about getting a VIVOSUN compost tumbler for my suburban garden, but I'm a bit unsure if it's the right choice. I don't have space for a large multi-chamber compost bin, but I do want to compost kitchen and yard waste to enrich my vegetable garden soil. These tumblers sit off the ground, which makes me wonder how well they'll break down compost materials since earthworms won't have access. I have a moderately sunny spot for it, so I'm looking for advice from anyone who's used a tumbler. Is it worth it for small-scale composting to cut down on waste and save on buying compost each year?
1 Answer
I've used both tumblers and worm bins, and I think a worm bin is better for kitchen scraps. Tumblers can break down waste quickly, like in about two months, but you need to get the balance of materials just right for hot composting, which can be tricky. They’re not ideal for food waste alone since they don't allow worms to help. You might want to check out trench composting where you just bury the scraps instead! If you decide on a tumbler, make sure not to overload it with just grass clippings; mix in other materials too because worms dislike that stuff.
If you're unsure about worms, I've had a lot of success with worm bins, but they're definitely a slower process—usually around a year!
I'll definitely check out vermicomposting! I had no idea it took longer. I just got rid of a bunch of dubia roaches, so I'm not too excited about keeping worms right now. ? But thanks for the solid advice!