For those concerned with the environment, this is a easy DIY project that can yield a beneficial and fast return and can put recycled materials to use. You stop throwing away food and other items that will quickly break down and you gain free, natural fertilizer for plants.

Here’s how to make your own compost bin:

1) Find a plastic storage bin (at least 18 gallons – this could be a recycled garbage can, or other container you already have)

2) To ensure thorough air flow to your compost so that it can properly break down, drill or punch holes throughout the container – 1/4 inch holes every 1-2 inches would be fine, but there are no hard rules here

3) Throw in your compost materials– kitchen scraps, weeds, trimmings, etc. Smaller pieces will breakdown more quickly, so chopping up the compost is recommended.

4) Be sure to adjust the wet/dry ratio so that the compost isn’t too wet or too dry. If you notice your compost seems too moist, adjust the consistency by adding shredded newspaper or saw dust.

5) Place the bin out of the way on a couple of bricks to ensure proper ventilation.

6) Continue to add compost to fill the bin and adjust dampness, turning or shaking the bin daily.

7) After about one month, you can run the compost through a sifter or chicken wire and harvest the final compost.

There you have it–your own free, natural fertilizer, ready to use on your garden.