Chicken Wire Compost Bin

Below you will find a step by step guide on how to make a chicken wire compost bin.

• Experience Required: Low
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Post driver or Sledgehammer, Wire cutters or Bolt cutters, Hammer, Tape measure
• Materials Required: Chicken wire, T posts or Wooden stakes, Cable ties or Staples

Step 1) Plan and Prepare

• Plan the layout and prepare the site for your chicken wire compost bin.
• Position a post at each corner, leaving approximately 90-120 cm between the posts.

 

Step 2) Start Installing Posts

• Start by installing your posts.
• If you are using T posts, drive them at least 30 cm into the ground to ensure they are stable.

Step 3) Hammer into the Ground

• Alternatively, hammer the wooden posts into the ground until they are firmly secure.

Step 4) Check Post Stability

• Once the posts are installed, check that they are stable and firmly fixed in place.

Step 5) Unroll the Netting

• Start by unrolling the chicken wire and positioning it around the posts.

Step 6) Make One Side Removable

• Leave one side removable.
• You may want to create a door, as this will allow you to easily open the bin when turning or removing compost.

Step 7) Staple to Wood

• Then attach the chicken wire to the posts.
• If you are using wooden posts, secure it with staples.

Step 8) Secure It in Place

• Then staple it to the post at the other end as well to secure it in place.

Step 9) Secure with Cable Ties

• If you are using metal or T posts, use cable ties to secure the netting in place.

Step 10) Cut the Netting

• Measure enough netting to reach the last post, making sure to account for the space needed for the door.
• Cut off any excess netting once you have the correct length.

Step 11) Close the Door

• Close the removable side, which is also known as the door.

Step 12) Secure the Door

• Attach it to the last post in a way that allows it to be removed so the bin can be opened and closed when needed.
• When it’s time to harvest compost, you can open the side and shovel material out easily.

Step 13) Cut Off Excess

• Cut off any excess cable tie ends for a neat and tidy finish.

Step 14) Finished Project

• Your chicken wire compost bin is now ready to use, and you can start filling it with compostable materials.

Further Tips on How to Make a Compost Bin with Chicken Wire

• As an alternative, you can use welded wire mesh instead of other fencing materials.
• You can use either T posts or wooden posts, depending on which option best suits your needs.
• If you are using wooden posts, secure the mesh with fencing staples. If you are using metal posts, use cable ties or wire instead.
• The ideal distance between posts is approximately 90-120 cm.
• For the best composting results, build a bin that is around 90-120 cm in diameter and roughly the same height.
• If desired, place a layer of cardboard at the bottom to help prevent weeds from growing into the compost.
• Place the compost bin directly on bare soil rather than on concrete or paving, and choose a location with good drainage.

FURTHER READING

• How to Unroll Chicken Wire – Step by step instructions to safely and easily unroll chicken wire.
• Cutting Chicken Wire – Learn how to cut netting correctly.
• How to Attach Chicken Wire to Posts and Different Materials – A guide to securing netting to different types of posts and materials.

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