Got my free composting bin!

Emily227

I was torn between getting the Biostack or a Soil Saver. We ended up getting the Soil Saver because it was recommended for first time composters. I'm excited to get started! My biggest concern is that we won't have enough browns. We don't have a lot of leaves since we live in Southern California.

Does anyone have recommendations for providing browns to their pile without a lot of leaves? 

JenShea

how'd you get it for free?

*speedracer*

i use paper/cardboard for browns.  we don't have a lot of browns in AZ either.

Emily227

My city has a program where you can get a free composting bin and pitchfork if you attend an hour long class on composting. So DH and I attended the class this morning and got our bin.

mariavictoriax

Emily227:

My city has a program where you can get a free composting bin and pitchfork if you attend an hour long class on composting. So DH and I attended the class this morning and got our bin.

Was the class interesting?  DH is really interested in doing this.

Emily227

Honestly, the class wasn't all that interesting. I didn't learn anything that I hadn't already read online---but you have to go to it to get the bin. I suppose it would be good if you had questions, but I didn't really.

On the other hand, I have attended the free landscaping/gardening classes and found it to be really helpful and informative. 

Temp76535187505890

I use shredded paper when we don't have any browns. 

Jen&Joe06

I use shredded paper.

And yeah for a free bin! Our region gives them away free too!

pixieprincss

For browns: shredded paper, torn up cardboard, 100% natural fibers (cotton balls, cotton cloth, etc.), finely chunked up pieces of tree branches

wabadee1

I've used paper grocery bags cut up into smaller pieces. Someone suggested to me the other day to use sawdust or wood shavings. I think there might be something like that, that expands and soaks up the excess sludge.