A wire mesh bin is inexpensive and easy to build out of either galvanized chicken wire or hardware cloth. Materials list and instructions are included.

A wooden box bin can be built inexpensively by using wooden pallets. Or you can use lumber to make a nicer bin. Materials list and instructions are included for making a compost box bin.

A wood and wire three-bin turning unit can be used to compost large amounts of yard, garden and kitchen wastes in a short time. Construction requires basic carpentry skills and tools. Materials list and instructions included.

A cinder block multiple bin looks like three cinder block holding units in a row. It is sturdy, and if you can find used cinder blocks, it is relatively inexpensive to build. Materials list and instructions included.

A cinder block bin is sturdy, durable and easily accessible. Materials list and instructions are included.

Mulch material does not have to be finished compost. But you can also mulch with compost. Materials list and instructions are included.

Yard wastes can be composted without a bin if you don’t mind the appearance of an uncontained compost mound in your yard. The only costs are your time and effort.

Troubleshooting: Symptoms, possible causes and prescriptions for your composting problems.

Follow these 12 easy steps to make and maintain your compost pile.