Those kitchen scraps, fruit skins, and other organic kitchen wastes will benefit your garden by being added to organic compost that you’re making yourself. But, while your compost matter decays, you may have an issue with invading bugs, fruit flies, and cockroaches. Pests are naturally drawn to the compost pile, especially when it’s all quiet at night, so you can do various things to reduce the bug attraction.
Continuously turn the compost
Compost piles need to be turned at least once a week to naturally stimulate microorganism activity while the shifting and infused oxygen encourages faster decomposition. When turning the compost you also destroy potential bug nests. Place fresh compost materials in the middle of the compost pile or at the bottom when turning the pile. Burying the fresh materials keeps them away from the bugs.
Cover but let air in
You can use a secure container or bin such as a large plastic container, garbage can, or small barrel, but instead of using the secure cover, use a fine wire mesh to keep the bugs out of the compost. The wire mesh keeps the insects away but allows ventilation through the compost since this speeds up the decomposition. You can also add a layer of sawdust, paper shreds, or soil to keep down the smell and keep the bugs away.
If you see maggots in the compost
Maggots or grubs are helpful as they also speed up the process of composting. The common type of grub you will see is the larval form of black soldier fly. Just make sure that the compost is covered with the wire mesh. Another disgusting looking grub you may spot is the larval form of the Rhinoceros beetle. They are not harmful to the compost.
Keep the mosquitoes away
Another reason why you need to turn your compost once a week and use a wire mesh cover is to prevent mosquitoes from visiting your compost and laying eggs. A neglected compost will hold small puddles of water that can be ripe for mosquito eggs and larvae. You don’t want a mosquito breeding area that will produce more pests that may bring disease.
Labrador Landscape Supplies
If you need other materials or soil to add to your organic compost, or if you prefer prepared soil and compost mixtures, you only need to call Labrador Landscape Supplies on 07 5537 2841 or message at https://landscape-supply.com.au/. We have been in the garden and landscape business for over 25 years, providing materials, supplies, and experience to customers all over the Gold Coast and Brisbane areas.