How do I Keep Pests & Bugs Away From Compost Tins?

Keep compost pest-free by turning it regularly.

In our environmentally conscious world, getting rid of waste in a green manner has become more important. One of the best ways for homeowners to do this is to maintain a compost pile or bin. They're fairly easy to set up and maintain. One issue that you will need to deal with is keeping pests out of the pile. Everything from animals to bugs will be interested in the decomposing kitchen scraps, so take certain steps to prevent problems.

Things You'll Need

• Soil
• Pitchfork
• Water

Instructions

1. Inspect the compost bin to determine whether pests have already found your composting pile. If so, consider relocating the pile to another spot in the yard, if possible. This will temporarily throw off the bugs and animals, allowing you to start fresh.

2. Put equal parts green and brown materials in the compost bin. In general, think of kitchen scraps as green and yard debris as brown. A balance will ensure that the pile gets neither too wet nor too dry.

3. Refrain from placing any animal products in the bin. Decomposing animal products will attract pests. Also avoid putting anything that is overly greasy into the bin.

4. Cover all food scraps with a six inch layer of soil. To accomplish this, use a pitchfork to turn the pile, and incorporate the six-inch level of soil or brown material that's on top.

5. Turn the pile over once a day. Using a long handled pitchfork, turn the pile vigorously. This will discourage ant colonies from forming, and help keep green material from being exposed at the top of the pile.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use any chemicals to kill or deter pests from your compost pile, as this will contaminate the fresh fertilizer you have worked so hard to produce.

References

• Keeping Wildlife Out of the Compost