How to Make a Mulcher Out of a Barrel

Clean a 55-gallon barrel thoroughly. The barrel can be metal, plastic or wood and should have a lid that locks on. Do not use a barrel that was used for storage of paint, oil or other toxic chemicals. Traces of the chemicals can leech into your mulch and contaminate your garden.

Drill 1/2-inch holes in rows around the barrel. Space the holes about 4 or 5 inches apart. Make six to nine rows several inches apart and evenly spaced from the top to the bottom of the barrel. Also drill a dozen or so holes in the bottom of the barrel. The holes are essential to allow aeration and drainage of the mulch inside. Do not drill holes in the top. The mulch should be protected from rain, which could make it too wet.

Make a foundation for the barrel with three or four concrete blocks or bricks. Set the barrel on the foundation so air flows beneath it. Elevating the barrel in this way also helps keep the bottom from rushing out.

Fill the mulcher barrel about 75 percent full with lawn and garden clippings and kitchen scraps. Do not put any animal byproducts in the mulch. The biological matter will probably have enough moisture, but if it is not a little damp, sprinkle it with water. Secure the lid on the barrel.

Turn the barrel on its side and roll it around your yard for a few minutes every two or three days to mix the compost inside. Continue this procedure for two to four months, and you will have rich mulch for your garden. The time it takes for the mulch to be ready depends on your climate and the time of year. The mulch is ready faster in a humid environment and when the temperatures are warm.