How to Set Up a Balcony Compost

Commercial Products

• Choose an appropriately sized compost bin for balcony use. The City of Toronto Solid Waste Management recommends using a commercial compost bin with a minimum diameter of 15 inches. However, smaller bins are also acceptable, although they will not produce as much compost. If you have a spacious balcony, consider using a turning unit, which produces compost quickly and is highly pest-resistant. Compost Heaven provides a helpful list of commercial products in a variety of sizes and styles.

Homemade Bins

• It's easy to make your own compost bin with a plastic trash can or box. Simply punch holes in the base and the sides to allow for aeration. Place a tarp or tray under the compost bin to catch any excess moisture. If you use plastic containers, such as a plastic trash can, you can also use another identical container and place it underneath the compost bin to catch moisture. Consider adding worms to your compost bin to speed up decomposition, but be sure to provide insulation if you live in a cold climate.

Care

• As with any compost pile, always keep your compost moist and turn it regularly to encourage quicker decomposition. You will need soil or yard clippings to add to your compost, as well as waste from the kitchen. For balcony composts, be sure to use small pieces of waste in order to encourage decomposition. Turn your compost about once a week and try to maintain a ratio of about five parts organic waste to one part soil, yard clippings or finished compost.

Uses

• You might wonder how you can use your compost without a big backyard garden. Finished compost makes a great addition to potted plants; simply spread a half inch or so on the surface and gently incorporate it into the soil. If you know other balcony composters, you could all band together and make a community garden if you have approval from your community management, using your compost as fertilizer. You can also contact local gardening organizations and ask if they would be interested in compost donations. If all else fails and you have an overabundance of compost, take it to the park and spread it as mulch around trees, flowers and other plant beds.