Harvesting Compost from a HOTBIN (200) or HOTBIN Mini (100)
Although harvesting compost from the HOTBIN may not be a simple or tidy job we have pulled together some a how too from our experiences.
- Remove the cam straps or loosen these and shimmy them above the hatch and tighten out of the way, this can save having to do them back up or getting in the way of removing your compost.
- Remove the hatch by pulling outwards one side at a time. You can read How To Remove The Hatch? for further details on this.
- Looking face on at the material behind the hatch, first remove the middle area (the core) of the compost first leaving the sides and back supporting the material above.
- Drag the material from the back of the HOTBIN to the front bringing the sides forward with it one side at a time.
- If you can do so try and leave a small amount of ready to harvest compost just below the material which is still decomposing, this should prevent the unready material from dropping down into the cavity too early. However, It is possible that you may rake out some material which still needs further composting, although do not worry as this can be popped back into the top of the unit to continue breaking down further.
Please note, HOTBIN compost is naturally stickier than regular compost due to the high humic content (link to new humus post) (but not extremely wet or foul-smelling), this sticky nature is useful when removing your compost as it’s more supportive than drier and crumblier compost.
For more information, check out All About HOTBIN Compost.
Which Tools to Use
We recommend using the HOTBIN raking stick or a trowel to remove the compost. If using a garden fork or other sharp tools please take care not to pierce the wall of the HOTBIN as this could cause damage that will affect the ongoing performance of the unit