Do It Yourself Gardening and Landscape Design

Is metal rust bad for veg garden compost?

I want to build a compose bin using a metal drum. I am troubled by the question whether or not rust would be bad for compose. Try our best to ensure the garden is organic and free from pesticides and other harmful substances.

No. Iron Oxide (what rust is) is common in many soils, and iron is a human nutrient, too.

I think your compost bin might have a short life being made of steel, but I don’t think there’s any harm to the compost.

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2 Responses to “Is metal rust bad for veg garden compost?”

  1. Don says:

    No. Iron Oxide (what rust is) is common in many soils, and iron is a human nutrient, too.

    I think your compost bin might have a short life being made of steel, but I don’t think there’s any harm to the compost.
    References :

  2. Norma B says:

    If you use a metal barrel, I would recommend drilling about 1/2 inch holes all over it. It needs to be able to breath, and drain in order to make compost.
    References :

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