How to Make a Composting Drum

Clean out the drum with a simple soap and water solution. Drum containers can be kegs, metal or plastic trash cans or a wood wine barrel.

Clear an area for your drum composting operation. Choose an area that is out of the way but still accessible. Although drum composting is tidier than pile composting, it still has some mess and maintenance associated. Avoid setting up the composter in the kitchen or living areas.

Lay down a large plastic tarp or several large garbage bags. Set two cement blocks in the middle of the plastic, a drum-width away from each other.

Drill several holes in the bottom of your drum—five to 10 small and equally spaced holes will do. Stand the drum on top of the two cement blocks the hole-drilled side down. Avoid resting the holes directly onto any surface as they should provide ventilation and therefore need access to air.

Fill the drum with any organic matter you plan on composting. Include food, lawn material (grass clippings, raked leaves). Wet the contents of the compost drum once you've filled the whole thing. Wet the contents thoroughly, but do not soak them.

Seal the drum. Wait for 6 weeks. Turn the drum after this time. This will mix air into the drying compost and help complete the process. Wait another 4 weeks. Open your compost drum and assess your creation. Spread your compost onto your garden, whether that's on a rooftop or in a yard, and watch your plants benefit from your work.