My compost bin is weeping

Discussion in 'Compost, Fertilisers & Recycling' started by tc6828, Jul 20, 2008.

  1. tc6828

    tc6828 Apprentice Gardener

    Joined:
    Jul 20, 2008
    Messages:
    1
    Ratings:
    +0
    Hi everyone. Apologies if this topic has already been covered but I am new to the site. Our problem is that our compost bin is oozing what looks like a black oily substance from the bottom. I think we have put normal compost stuff in it, kitchen waste, paper from out shredder and grass. Whilst the bin is full, and has been for a while, only the bottom 10 inches looks to have composted (albeit very wet and oily) with

    Any ideas or help please
     
  2. takemore02withit

    takemore02withit Gardener

    Joined:
    Apr 8, 2008
    Messages:
    2,695
    Ratings:
    +40
    if I was you tc Id put more dry stuff in and give it a turn. it usually woirks for me. 02
     
  3. Kristen

    Kristen Under gardener

    Joined:
    Jul 22, 2006
    Messages:
    17,534
    Gender:
    Male
    Location:
    Suffolk, UK
    Ratings:
    +12,669
    Grass only heaps tend to go to a slimy mess because the compost anaerobically (without air), rather than aerobically (with air), and its a different set of "bug" for each.

    So I agree with O2
     
  4. Bertie

    Bertie Apprentice Gardener

    Joined:
    Aug 3, 2007
    Messages:
    11
    Ratings:
    +0
    Pity you couldn't collect the 'black oil'. It must be full of plant nutrients and suitably diluted would make an ideal liquid fertiliser.
     
  5. cybersioux2001

    cybersioux2001 Apprentice Gardener

    Joined:
    Jul 24, 2008
    Messages:
    28
    Ratings:
    +1
    Hello.I had the same problem.If you have the space get a plastic composter with a tap on the bottom as there is a lower section which acts as a reservoir for the liquid providing no gungy bits block it up and then,hopefully, you can pour it into a bottle and as Bertie says use it as a liquid fertilizer.If you can't get one use a water butt barrel with a tap(it will have to be raised off the ground)and put a platform inside to make a reservoir,anything will do wood or plastic,raised on beer or coke cans and start a second composter.
     
  6. daitheplant

    daitheplant Total Gardener

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2006
    Messages:
    10,282
    Gender:
    Male
    Occupation:
    Retired
    Location:
    South East Wales
    Ratings:
    +2,881
    With this type of compost bin, the material doesn`t all compost together. You need to take the composted material out of the bottom, but keep feeding fresh material in at the top. It`s a rotational thing, in one end, out the other.:thumb:
     
  7. cybersioux2001

    cybersioux2001 Apprentice Gardener

    Joined:
    Jul 24, 2008
    Messages:
    28
    Ratings:
    +1
    Hi.I meant to say that a second bin with a tap could be used just for the liquid stuff.Sorry for not making myself clear.
     
Loading...

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice