Compost needs oxygen to break down and decompose. The best compost aerator tool will be able to provide it with a lot of air, while also being easy enough for you to use. In this blog post, we will discuss the top five compost aerators on the market today!
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What is a Compost Aerator?
A compost aerator tool is a device that encourages the breakdown of organic material. This means you can use it to help your mulch, soil, and plant matter break down faster than they would on their own. Composting is necessary for creating healthy soil and growing great plants! The best way to do this is by letting oxygen in so the microorganisms responsible for breaking things down have what they need to complete their job quickly and efficiently.
Top 5 Compost Aerators
1. Lotech Products Compost Crank
Last update on 2022-05-19
Lotech Products suggests a crank type of lawn aerator for your compost that is made in the USA and measures 45 inches in length. It has 2 handles with an ergonomic design for a better grip. While it may look like it won’t last for too long, remember it is made of stainless steel and glass-filled nylon handles to help it last longer.
Given the materials it is made of, you can easily leave outside exposed to the elements as it won’t rust. Users praised it because it doesn’t require much effort to use, even though they have to spend a bit more time turning the compost around than with other tools.
It can reach a depth of 29 inches, and it can pass easily through a variety of composting materials. The corkscrew end is a bit short and not very wide therefore you’re supposed to use it gradually in a large bin to loosen the accumulated matter.
The major complaint regarding this aerator was related to its price tag as it was seen a bit high. Those complaining about their backs hurting must have tried to go really deep in their bins from the first time, instead of working their way down.
Pros:
- 2 handles
- Doesn’t rust
Cons:
- Using it takes longer than expected
- The price
2. Reln Garden Compost Aerator
Last update on 2022-05-19
The first thing that stands out about this Reln Garden tool is its flimsy appearance. However, it’s made of steel, therefore it’s rather strong. It also has a good shape with a spiraled end and with a handle and a twist at the other end. This design will make the tool easier to use, though both hands are needed for the purpose.
What you should know about this device is that you need to crank it for it to work. It measures 35.4 inches in length and perhaps taller people will be able to maneuver it better than shorter folks.
For the best results, you have to pierce the pile of compost several times with this tool. The first few times, try not to go too deep as it will be counter-effective. It might take several attempts to completely turn and aerate the pile, but the results will be better than with a regular fork.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design
- Made of steel
- Affordable
Cons:
- Several tries for best results
- Just 1 handle
3. Redmon Wingdigger
Last update on 2022-05-19
The Redmon Wingdigger Compost Aerator is a bar with flaps on one end and a handle on the other end. To use it, all you have to do is the piece the compost pile with it as deep as you can, and then pull it out. When piercing, the flaps close and when trying to pull out, they open, thus turning the matter around and helping it get some air.
This tool is meant for taller people as it measures 34 inches in length. Shorter people could use it if their compost pile is not too tall. Folks that suffer from their backs or shoulders are advised not to use the Wingdigger as it can worsen their conditions. This tool uses no electricity and therefore it is eco-friendly.
Some users recommend shredding the leaves going into the compost especially if you want to use this specific compost aerator. Not doing so, you may not be able to mix and turn the pile as efficiently. Some users think that bigger flaps would do a better job than the current ones.
Many of those using this aerator recommend it for smaller piles of compost. Its price tag is what made it a popular purchase.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic grip
- Very affordable
Cons:
- One hand use
- Doesn’t go deep in the pile
- Not for those with bad shoulders or backs
4. Compost Crank Twist
Last update on 2022-05-19
The Compost Crank Twist is a great way to aerate any compost bin. Designed with the environment in mind, this trusty twist lets you work through the vine and other troublesome ingredients without fear of breaking it. With its comfortable grip and lifetime warranty, you can’t go wrong!
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Lifetime Limited Warranty
- Non-slip grip
Cons:
- Requires physical effort
5. FreeGarden FORK Enviro World Compost Turner
Last update on 2022-05-19
Keeping your organic material moist and turning it is very important. Be sure to turn the pile every few days for best results, but you don’t have to with our handy Yard Butler! You’ll find that this turns compost without the use of a shovel or heavy lifting—and with folding wings, harpooning into the heart of your pile will open when withdrawn, mixing compost in one quick swoop with no effort at all! We even need you to lift a finger so our eco-friendly design gets under debris causing an air pocket.
Pros:
- All steel construction
- Aerates circulates and turns the compost
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- May rust over time
Types of Compost Aerator Tools
There are several types of aerators available — corkscrew, plunger models, and the crank compost aerator type. The type of tool you choose will depend on the size and weight of your compost pile, as well as how much effort you want to put into turning it.
Corkscrews work best for small or lightweight piles that do not need a lot of aerating. Compost corkscrews feature a long metal rod with a twist handle at one end and an arrow-shaped point that pierces through the pile when twisted. This leaves holes in the center of the material so oxygen can enter from below or above, depending on where you insert it. These tools are easy to push down into most types of organic matter without difficulty but they only penetrate about 12 inches (30 cm) deep because their main function is simply poking holes rather than moving the pile.
Compost aerators are typically large metal bars or flat boards attached to a sturdy handle that can be used for moving and turning materials over, whether it’s compost, dirt in the garden bed, or mulch around trees. They typically have two sharp prongs at one end so they can be pushed into the material with ease but will not fall through the bottom. They can be used from either end to lift and turn material, or one spike inserted into a corner of your pile allows you to split it in half for turning without having to manhandle the whole heap!
Reasons behind using a Compost Aerator?
There are several reasons why you might want to use a compost aerator tool, whether you have an active compost heap or not. There is no set rule on how often to turn your pile with one of these tools but it’s generally recommended that homemade piles need turning at least once every couple of months and commercial bins weekly. The best time for this task is in the cooler parts of the day when there isn’t too much sun out – being exposed can cause even well-made heaps to dry out and decompose more slowly than normal.
Composting requires microorganisms that do their work better if conditions remain moist, too much heat (like during summer) and they’ll die off and leave your material high and dry!
Why Is Water Important for Compost Piles?
There are a number of reasons why water is essential for compost piles.
First, moisture allows the microorganisms that work to decompose organic material in your pile to do their job more effectively. In well-made heaps, this should happen quickly enough anyway but there might be times when you’re not turning it often enough and need to add some extra humidity from the outside to keep things going nicely inside – a spray bottle or watering can work well for small batches! Additionally, too much heat kills off many organisms so if drought conditions have made summer dryer than normal adding a bit of water will help maintain good decomposition rates without making things too soggy.
Conclusions
If you’re looking for a compost aerator tool, hopefully, this has helped. There are lots of options and the best one is dependent on many factors. As long as it’s sharp and can get in there to stir things up without hurting your back or knees, and will do – so pick the one that suits your needs and budget. Good luck with building excellent soil by adding more nutrients than nature would provide otherwise!
