FCMP IM2000 Tumbling Composter Instruction Manual
- June 1, 2024
- FCMP
Table of Contents
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.
