Troubleshooting

Compost piles using only biodegradable plant material usually do not stink or attract vermin. However, biodegradable material consisting of food scraps may pose a problem if not handled correctly.

Problem 1:

Compost pile stinks and attract flies

Cause:

1. Food scraps are exposed.
2. Too wet or too much food scraps in pile.

Solution:

1. Cover food scraps with soil or bury and mix it into the pile.
2. Add more soil or browns and turn pile.


Problem 2:

Pile infested with eodents and vermins

Cause:

Exposed food scraps or holes largwer than 1/4 inch.

Solution:

1. Cover the exposed food scraps.
2. Use rodent proof bins or containers or traps and baits.


Problem 3:

Compost process is slow or not composting.

Cause:

1. Too dry
2. Too much browns

Solution:

1. Add water until moist and mix thoroughly.
2. Add more greens or organic fertilizer or manure and mix thoroughly.