Help with my new compost bin

[keepitgreen]

I decided to start anew project of building a nice tidy compost heap over the winter. I have designed it to have 2 or 3 chambers and use bubble wrap and manure to heat it up.

My previous heap was very open and unprotected and completly neglected. Although it made nice compost it took it's time (about 3 years)! I have done some reading up about the best way to look after my compost heap and the best design.

Has anyone got any tips on starting off a brand new heap or things you do to keep your heap composting well?

I am so excited about my winter project... I can't wait until my compost it ready for the garden!

[snuffer]

Hello there keepitgreen. I too have a three bay composting system. It works very well and allows for easy turning of the heap. I do nothing extra to try and increase the speed of the composting process. I always have one of the bays ready for using in late autumn early spring (just when it's most needed). Easily get well over a two thousand litres, perhaps getting on for three. Sometimes it's a bit twiggy but makes a wonderfully rich soil improver.

Have fun with your heaps.

[Two_Sheds]

I wouldn't use bubblewrap.
You want air to circulate through the heap ... plastic will make it sweat, and encourage fungi, and possibly rats.

Also, plastic will quickly degrade in the open air, and you'll forever be picking bits of it out of your compost and your garden.

[chuffa]

Why not cover the sides with cardboard and leave the front and back open maybe with pallets. The cardboard will rot down eventually.

[Capsid]

And don't forget to pee on it!