Chicken Wire Compost Bin (Tutorial)

Download Article

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.

VIDEO

Written By

This blog was created by Timi with the help of Erno, and Gyopi, who installed the compost bin. Take a look at some behind-the-scenes images below.

Erno and Gyopi installing a the compost bin for this guide.
Timi making sure each step is recorded while Erno is installing the compost bin.

Download Article

Chicken Wire Compost Bin