Using the Scotty’s Hot Box
Materials added to the maturation bin can be in any stage of decomposition, although with food waste the whole point is for the materials to have been through a rapid hot phase which kills off pathogens and renders the material unappealing to rats. Take the materials from the Jora, Scotspin or Ridan and tip into the Hot box, rake the contents level.
This is also a good time to check the moisture levels. If it is wet and sloppy still you can layer in paper towels, (the unbleached cream coloured ones are best, if your school gets blue ones consider procuring these unbleached ones) you can also add some cardboard to mop up excess moisture. If it is too dry then you can add fresh garden greens in layers, such as grass cuttings or fresh weeds etc or you can add water, through a sprinkler (or rose on a watering can) is best.
If you only have one Hot box then when it’s full you will have to scoop off the top layers and put them to one side. You should find plenty of worms under the top section, put them with the top layers too. The bottom section should yield plenty of finished compost after six to nine months or so. This can either be used immediately on the gardens or bagged up until needed.
If you have two or more hot boxes then as you fill them move onto the next one when all are filled empty the first to be filled and the whole bin should be ready. If you are not happy with the look of it try sieving it. Any lumps, sticks or stones are quickly sifted out and can be tossed to one side.
A cubic metre
compost bin with a lid and base and removable front panels, usually used by
schools and organisations – see larger systems at the end of the book. Best set
up on flat hard standing such as paving slabs. Can also be used as an all in
one composter for all food wastes, humanure, garden clippings etc.
Pro’s
·
Designed as a
maturation bin for food waste after it has come out of a tumbling system
·
Large capacity and
hollow board provide insulation enabling it work efficiently all year round
·
Capable of taking
anything compostable as long as the mantra is followed
·
Modular design means
you can add more as you need
·
Sliding front board
enable easy access
·
Very robust
·
Looks good – made from
recycled and recyclable plastic
Con’s
·
Cost £445 + Vat and
delivery
·
Needs a flat level
site
Made by the Worm Research
Centre – sold by Proper Job Ltd
recycling@proper-job.org
01647 432985
