13 replies to this topic

[jules21158]

This summer when I was searching for the best priced compost bins I checked on-line all the usually places like Argos, Homebase, Wickes and B&Q. But found that my local council were selling them at 2 thirds of the store prices, as encouragement to recycle, and if you purchased two you got the second one half price.

So if you are thinking of getting a compost bin for your garden then inquire at your local council to see if they are offering any incentive schemes like mine.

[steph84]

Some cities give away compost bins for free. Some of my friends who live in Brooklyn got free compost bins and rain catchers from their local government. They also have a bunch of community gardening events and such where they get stuff for free. Check with your local government's calendar to see if any free giveaways are happening in your area.

[Sandra Piddock]

Many local authorities provide discounted or free compost bins. It's also possible to get rain water butts at special prices. The best thing is to contact the environmental health department of your local council and ask if any schemes are available. Even if there are no council schemes, they may know of local businesses who have special offers on recycling equipment.

[rbaker_59]

This is awesome!  I am really wanting to get into the composting, but have very little money.  I haven't thought of my own city council.  Thanks for the post and information.  I will check there first.

[aspen]

Some 24 years ago our council was encouraging composting and had for sale a very basic style of compost bin black in colour for $10.
The interesting part was I was told when I bought mine that it was actually made from $10 bills. In 1988 the worlds first polymer bank notes were made here in Australia. Due to flaws in production including the hologram peeling off. The story goes they were recalled and reused in these bins.
I did some googling to see if it was more than just an urban myth at the time but it appears it was probably true.

How are our polymer notes recycled?

The notes are granulated into small confetti like pieces using a motor driven blade system. The granulated notes are then passed through a specialised extruder that melts the polymer and blends them into pellets. The pellets are then ready to be used as the raw material for such products as compost bins, garden carts, garden pots, household products and plumbing supplies.

http://www.polymerno...ustralia10.html

[steph84]

I just received an ad in the mail today that Home Depot has one on sale for $49, but it is the square design. I much rather prefer a barrel type of compost bin that you can spin. Just thought I'd let everyone know about this deal.

[tigerlily78]

steph84, on 14 April 2012 - 07:55 PM, said:

I just received an ad in the mail today that Home Depot has one on sale for $49, but it is the square design. I much rather prefer a barrel type of compost bin that you can spin. Just thought I'd let everyone know about this deal.

My local Home Depot had a 90 gallon tumbling composter for around $70... right next to the promoted square ones. Maybe call your local store and see if they also have the tumbling version?  :)

[Shortpoet-GTD]

tigerlily78, on 17 April 2012 - 09:34 AM, said:

My local Home Depot had a 90 gallon tumbling composter for around $70... right next to the promoted square ones. Maybe call your local store and see if they also have the tumbling version?  :)

That's where I bought my tumbler a few years back. Works great.

[tigerlily78]

I also saw in a recent ad that Lowes has a slightly different style of tumbling composter on sale this week.. $78 for the barrel looking kind that spins end over end, rather than rolling.

[Shortpoet-GTD]

tigerlily78, on 20 April 2012 - 01:39 PM, said:

I also saw in a recent ad that Lowes has a slightly different style of tumbling composter on sale this week.. $78 for the barrel looking kind that spins end over end, rather than rolling.

That's the one I got. And the saying-"when all else fails, read the instructions" is too &^%$ true. I put it together
wrong, spun it a few times last year, and twisted the long screw. Can't get it out to fix it.
I can still turn it, but I have to be super careful, or it falls off the support rods. (Kicking myself for that one.)

[irenen1]

^{I prefer the cheapest version, burying compost a foot deep under the garden. Next year when I turn over the soil there is no evidence of what used to be.}

[j_pin]

Oh thank you so much for posting this. I have been looking for a compost bin but have been surprised at the high prices from the big box stores. I will be contacting my city council and see if they have some at a discounted price. I never thought of doing that before, I hope that they have some.

[dziomek]

I have a traditional compost bin, but would like a more compact, portable type. I have had my eye on the drum style for some time - doe they work as well as "they" claim they do? I also imagine one could be made from materials salvaged from land fills as well; especially metals for the framework. Hmmm...this gives me an idea - now to figure out how to build it. :)

[Shortpoet-GTD]

dziomek, on 20 June 2012 - 06:42 AM, said:

I have a traditional compost bin, but would like a more compact, portable type. I have had my eye on the drum style for some time - doe they work as well as "they" claim they do? I also imagine one could be made from materials salvaged from land fills as well; especially metals for the framework. Hmmm...this gives me an idea - now to figure out how to build it. :)

A frame type set up-do you know a welder? Attached to a steel drum (should be easy to find) on each end so it
can turn. Have the welder cut out a door on one side-reattach with hinge. Whole thing about $50 bucks or
buy a tumbler from Home Depot or Lowe's.
I like mine better than the pile, easier to work for my old bones.