Hey, I'm new here, and new to gardening. I've been reading up as much as I can, but there's so much I still don't know LOL
First off, I was wondering, what's the smallest container you can compost in? We're in a little apartment with a tiiiny, already pretty crowded balcony, so I'd really like to start small. Would a large Rubbermaid container be big enough? Our winters drop to -30 here, will that make a difference? Will it smell? Because if not there's also a spot under the sink where a larger bin could fit neatly.
I also have two guinea pigs who give me plenty of dropping filled hay that I'd like to try composting. I'm pretty sure the droppings count as greens, but I'm confused as to whether the hay is a green or a brown? I've seen it classified both ways. Also, is the hay still good to use if it's been peed on it? To be honest, it becomes a stinky, rotting mess pretty quickly without frequent cleaning.
They also love to shred up newspapers and cardboard boxes for me, which I figure can go into the bin as well. And we'll throw in kitchen peelings. Does that sound balanced? Should I add anything else?
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this!