ridans

Ridan composters

See the Ridan website for in-depth information on this method of composting.

How do they work?

Ridans are useful for composting large quantities of food waste safely, making them more suitable for schools and businesses. They are a long barrel shape that can be spun round by turning a handle, so that the materials inside are well mixed. This means that plenty of oxygen is added, and it makes the job of turning the compost easier. The compost produced can be added straight onto the soil surface as a mulch, but it’s a good idea to add it to another composter on the ground to allow it to mature with worms and bacteria from the soil.

Why use a Ridan?

Compost is sealed in the vessel, off the ground, making it secure from rats.
May speed up the composting process, but this takes practice and more effort.
Easy to turn compost
Can be used for hot composting
Can process large amounts of food scraps, suitable for schools and businesses

What are the downsides?

They are expensive
They can take up quite a lot of space.
They can be heavy to turn
They are more ‘fussy’ about what materials you add. You need a supply of dry woodchips to mix with food scraps.