composting questions from a newbie

Hi,

I'm thinking about trying to make my own compost. I have very little outdoor space, so I'm thinking of getting either a compact drum composter (eg - Envirocycle) or a vermicomposter (eg- The Worm Factory). Anyone have any thoughts on either of those? They're both a bit pricey so I'll have to save up for a while. This would probably have to be on my roof (where my SFG is!). If I get a worm composter, I suppose I'll have to bring the poor fellows inside over the winter. I know you can worm compost in a roughneck note (cheaper!), but I'm a bit squeamish and I want to interact as little as possible with the critters. I'm currently using store bought compost mixed from the few different sources I can find locally for my Mel's mix: mixed farm manures, acquaculture compost, sheep manure, and coffee grinds from Starbucks. I haven't gotten as far as harvesting anything, so I haven't had to add new compost yet after setting up my SFG.

If I do make my own compost using one of the above methods, is it ok to put weeds like dandelions from the yard into it? I don't use anything chemical on my lawn, but I'm worried that weed seeds might start sprouting up in my SFG if I do that.

All advice appreciated as I'm new and clueless!

I forgot to add that I really don't want to attract any kind of vermin to my compost pile, so I assume I shouldn't include any animal products like kitchen scraps. Anything else I should keep in mind? Will odour be an issue (this thing will be right next to the house!).

definitely no animal products! They will not only take way too long to break down, but they will horribly smell as they rot and attract the four legged pests that you do not want.

I've also read that when you add new vegetation to your compost pile, to bury it under the pile at least a few inches to try to keep the smell from would-be foragers.

I forgot one of the biggest reasons to not include meat products- the disease factor. The same goes for carniverous animal waste.

Of course, I'm no expert. I'm learning just like you!