06-14-2007, 06:21 AM
There are two major ways waste can be turned to compost. Anaerobic processes work without the presence of oxygen. This is the process that takes place in cesspools and is responsible for the methane and sulfurous smells when you open the cover. Most of the decomposition is accomplished by anaerobic bacteria.
Aerobic decomposition works in the presence of oxygen and is aided by aerobic bacteria, molds, fungi and critters like earthworms. If you have ever seen how fast dry rot (a fungus) can turn structural wood to tofu, you know how much help they are to composting. A well operating aerobic compost pile is fast and produces almost no smell.
A pit will mostly work anaerobically unless you turn the pile frequently. A wire bin has more access to oxygen so requires less turning. I like a more sturdy setup so I use hollow concrete block on three sides and a two bin process. Start in one bin, and flip it over into the other bin periodically. Use the empty bin to add new material. There is a mortarless interlocking hollow block that is easy to construct and plenty strong for a composting facility.
Aerobic decomposition works in the presence of oxygen and is aided by aerobic bacteria, molds, fungi and critters like earthworms. If you have ever seen how fast dry rot (a fungus) can turn structural wood to tofu, you know how much help they are to composting. A well operating aerobic compost pile is fast and produces almost no smell.
A pit will mostly work anaerobically unless you turn the pile frequently. A wire bin has more access to oxygen so requires less turning. I like a more sturdy setup so I use hollow concrete block on three sides and a two bin process. Start in one bin, and flip it over into the other bin periodically. Use the empty bin to add new material. There is a mortarless interlocking hollow block that is easy to construct and plenty strong for a composting facility.
Larry