How do I establish a small compost bin on a townhouse patio?

They have small ones, the tumbler is nice... http://www.homedepot.com/s/compost%2520bin?NCNI-5

Were you thinking that you would keep the small compost bin on the patio only temporarily, and then every so often take the contents and mix them into a garden with real soil?

If not, then the compost bin contents on their own would not be very useful.

Also keep in mind that it might give off an unpleasant smell and attract flies, which might not be desirable for your patio.

http://www.balconycontainergardening.com/gardening/466-composting-methods

http://www.goveganic.net/article201.html

If you don't find a solution this works.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/vermicomposting/vermiculture-under-sinks.htm

There are small tiered worm bins. They are great in a small space. The area in which you put food scraps attracts the worms and they do not smell- okay maybe a wee but.

This type of system has a tap at the bottom where you drain off the compost tea. Amazing for your garden it balcony plants.

Have you thought of using one of those blue storage bins made by Rubbermaid or Sterlite? Cost is minimal.

Gardener's Supply ( gardeners.com) has countertop composters that have filters to control odors...I've used one for years and it's very effective!

http://www.gardeners.com/buy/odor-free-compost-pail/30-708.html