Name: Worm Factory 360 (left)
Price: $119.99
Rating: To be determined*

Name: VermiHut 3-Tray Worm Composter (right)
Price: $50.00
Rating: To be determined*

After months of failing to locate not only functional but attractive containers with which to build a worm composting system to keep on our apartment balcony, we managed to find two intriguing, albeit more expensive, commercial options. The Worm Factory 360 and VermiHut are both compact, stackable, and expandable worm composters that promise ease of use. With seemingly similar designs but widely different price points, we were curious to see how each would work on its own and in comparison with the other. These are our impressions after the first week. More

Yesterday, when we shared our new composting bin, we incited a few questions about critters. One commenter asked, "If the wire is attached to the posts, how will you be able to move it to turn the pile?" As the commenter pointed out, the posts may not be necessary, but that's where said "sage advice" comes in. More

For three years we have been worm composting in a small bin on the balcony. There's no denying that it's icky, but it is incredibly rewarding and a relatively easy green living practice. A big reason we've had such success is that we started a worm composting club, so when it comes time to reap the benefits of composting (rich black soil and moral support) we have a composting party and get dirty! More

As many of us living in small spaces know, composting kitchen scraps can be a challenge. Though there a few small units designed for use in the kitchen, most of those designed for outdoor use are large and bulky, making composting a challenge for folks with only a small outdoor area available. If you are looking for an outdoor composting system that won't occupy your entire balcony or terrace, this expandable unit with a small footprint might be just the ticket. More