Pests and Compost

Many people are concerned about pests in compost and therefore avoid composting in their yard or municipality. Many of these concerns can be prevented by maintaining an active pile. Dry, still piles will provide just what some pests are looking for—food and lodging.

The best strategy to avoid pests is to cover food scraps immediately with soil or finished compost, add leaves and water and stir. Do not compost meat, fish, bones, salad dressing, cooking oils, dairy products and dog and cat feces. If problems occur, deal with them as soon as possible.

Mice are an often-cited concern. Keep your compost active especially in the fall. If the problem continues, buy a few mouse traps, or a live trap if you like, set them around the pile, and add lots of water. The mice will flee the pile and may get caught on the run. Add more leaves and soil to the pile to balance the extra moisture and stir well over the next few days.

Problems with larger rodents such as raccoons, require a sturdy bin with a secure lid. They are smart rascals and will open the lid if it is loose and come in for dinner. Lining the sides and bottom of a bin may also help to exclude these rodents.

Wasps in the compost are another real concern. Again, a dry pile will offer a comfortable nest site. Keep the pile stirred and moist. If you find wasps, make sure you are clothed to avoid being stung, including a bee veil and gloves, wait until dark and water the pile thoroughly and stir. This should make them leave. Insecticides should be avoided, since they will contaminate your compost and kill other organisms.

If you have other solutions to pest problems, or have encountered unusual pests, please share your stories with us. We are always looking to add to our knowledge base.

(Source: WasteWatch, December 2000)

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