Yes, if you are not adding materials to your ComposT-Twin, you may wish to cover it with a composter cover. Check our on-line ordering for the ComposT-Twin Cover
TopWhat type of maintenance does the ComposT-Twin require?
The Mantis ComposT-Twin requires little maintenance. After emptying finished compost from a chamber, rinse the inside thoroughly with a garden hose. Occasionally check the breather screens in the doors to ensure they are not clogged. At the beginning of each season, lubricate the four axle rod guides with a wheel bearing-type grease, and check all screws and bolts for tightness.
TopWill the composter work if you only put grass in it?
Yes, you can compost only grass, but not very efficiently. A better mix is 60% brown leaves and 40% green grass. Another good addition to a new compost batch is compost activator, or good garden soil - both of which include the beneficial bacteria that speed up the decomposition process.
No, you don't want to have pests in your compost pile. Traditional piles can invite all sorts of unwanted pests. Food scraps, especially meat and fish, can attract rodents. Fruit will often attract bees and wasps. And, some materials will attract birds, especially during nesting times. One of the many advantages of the ComposT-Twin is that it's totally enclosed, virtually eliminating rodents, bees, and birds. So, you can compost more materials without the problems associated with "open" compost piles.
Well-finished compost can be used at any time, in any season, and in any amount. There is no such thing as too much compost.
TopWhat temperature should my pile be for best composting?
Your compost should be between 120º Fahrenheit and 150º Fahrenheit, which will make for speedy composting. If the temperature is lower, the pile will still decay – but more slowly. If the temperature is too high, it may kill the beneficial microorganisms that help break down your Compost (compost rarely gets too hot)). The Compost Thermometer, available via our on-line shopping, will help you monitor the temperature in your compost chambers.
TopCan I add all of my grass clippings to the compost chamber?
Never add large quantities of grass clippings to the compost chamber. If they are fresh, the nitrogen ratio will be too high for the pile to decay. If you want to use your grass clippings, add a little at a time and store the rest in garbage bags or in a small pile elsewhere until they turn brown. Then they can be used as a carbon source.
Compost is an efficient way to recycle yard and garden “wastes” into the perfect slow-release fertilizer for your vegetable garden, flower garden and lawn. Compost improves your soil structure; it aerates clay soil for better drainage, and gives body to sandy soil to hold moisture and encourage strong root systems.
Follow nature’s example by returning and recycling as much organic matter as possible to the soil.
TopWhat is the advantage of two composting chambers for the ComposT-Twin?
You can allow one chamber to “cook” while you continue to add material to the other chamber. With the Mantis ComposT-Twin you’ll always have plenty of finished compost on hand, as well as a place to put compostable materials.
Turn your ComposT-Twin once a day to properly aerate the material in the chamber. Make sure to turn at least four complete revolutions of the drum. This action aerates the material in the chamber and fluffs the contents. Proper aeration aids in maintaining proper moisture levels --- proper moisture means contents will not develop an ammonia or sulfur-like smell. The mixture should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Use your Moisture Meter to test moisture levels; the reading should be between 4-7. The Moisture Meter is available via our on-line shopping.
