FCMP IM2000 Tumbling Composter Instruction Manual

: June 1, 2024
: FCMP

Table of Contents

FCMP IM2000 Tumbling Composter Instruction Manual
Setting-up your Composter
What to put in your Composter
Checking the Process

FCMP IM2000 Tumbling Composter Instruction Manual

Setting-up your Composter

First select a location to install your composter that is convenient to move materials to and from, usually close to a garden. Choose a flat surface with enough room to be able to rotate the composter and if able, be sure to select a location in direct sunlight, to help cook your compost.
To assemble, you will need an adjustable wrench and flat screw driver. An additional set of hands will be helpful too! Complete assembly instructions are included on inserted sheets.

What to put in your Composter

The composting process works best by mixing moist greens (nitrogen rich) with dry browns. (carbon rich) in a ratio of approximately 1 part greens to 2 parts browns. Start with a scoop of regular garden dirt to introduce the needed microbes

Do not compost:

meats/fats/bones – wood ashes
dairy products – invasive plants/weeds (i.e. poison ivy)
trash/plastic

Batch Composting

Add new raw material.

Fully rotate 5 – 10 times after each deposit, or every 2-3 days.

To empty a cured batch:

Place a small tarp or plastic sheet on the ground
Rotate the door to the bottom
Slide door open
Cured compost will fall out
Slide tarp out

With the palm of your hand, gently tap the sides to loosen most of the compost. Close the door and return to upright.

Checking the Process

After 2 or 3 days, check your mix to see if it is getting hot. When your mix is hot, the beneficial organisms are multiplying and doing their job decomposing materials. Turning the composter 5 to 10 times every 2 or 3 days will mix the materials and keep the process active. Squeeze a handful of compost to ensure the materials are not drying out. If it feels like a damp sponge, the water level is fine – if it feels dry, add a little more water (be careful not to add too much) and turn the composter to mix well.
Depending on the material you added your compost should be ready in 2 to 8 weeks. Finished compost will contain fine and coarse material. For a fine blend, sift the compost to use in potting mixes. Use the coarser compost as a nutritious top-dressing around outdoor plantings or till directly into your garden! You may also use finished compost as a starter for your next batch, or to heat up a batch that cooled too quickly.
To remove the finished compost, turn the barrel of the composter so the door is facing the ground and slide the door away from the chamber you want to empty.

Note: Part-C must be the last panel installed on the part-A face closest to the circular design or the pins will not line up correctly.