The compost heap attracts many beneficial insects such as: B. Worms that help food waste to be composted. But if you find ants in compost, you might wonder whether this is a good thing or a bad thing. We answer all your questions in this article.
The ants in the compost are a clear sign that the compost is too dry. They will not thrive in compost that is properly balanced, moist and has higher temperatures. But ants are not always a bad thing as they are useful to the process. But even if you want to tolerate them, you should make sure that their numbers remain under control. However, we will show you some effective methods that you can try if you want to get rid of them.
Why are they good for compost?
Ants bring many benefits to compost.
- They help the materials mix better and aerate the pile by digging their tunnels through the compost.
- They add new material to the compost and chop other foods into small pieces, simplifying the process of composting.
- Ants distribute good bacteria, fungi and other beneficial organisms into the compost.
Can it be bad to have ants in compost?
A larger number of ants in the compost heap makes its use problematic.
The ants canpest controlas they protect the harmful aphids from eating their sweet honeydew.
They can reduce the effectiveness of vermicomposting if they eat too much worm food.
Another problem is that some species of ants can eat earthworms and other worms.
Can you use a compost with ants in it?
You definitely don't want to use compost with ants in your pots for houseplants because they don'tAnt infestation in your housewant.
However, if you notice an ant or two, feel free to use it in your garden.
If you discover species of ants in your compost pile that you don't want in your garden, you should not use it until you get rid of them or they disappear on their own.
Get rid of ants in compost
If you've noticed too many ants in your compost pile, you're probably looking for ways to control them. Here are some of the best methods.
- Wet the compost:As already mentioned, ants are attracted to a dry compost. Water can frustrate their population and keep them out of your compost pile. Keep humidity between 40% and 60% for best results. If you have noticed an ant nest, you can water it directly to destroy the ants.
- Regular turning:Turn the compost at least every two weeks with a shovel or pitchfork to disturb the ant colonies and thoroughly bury the new feed material. Exposed food residue attracts ants and turning it over regularly causes them to leave the pile and avoid it.
- Keep the compost warm:Since ants like cool temperatures, you should keep the compost warm. Cover it with plastic wrap to contain the natural heat or place it in the sun. When it reaches 60°C, move it back into the shade. Good air circulation is essential for the compost, so the plastic wrap should only be used temporarily.
- Parasitic nematodes:There are some nematodes that kill certain species of ants. To use this method, you should first make sure which ants are in your compost. Mix the nematodes with water and spread them on the compost. They are harmless to humans and other beneficial insects such as earthworms.
- Eggshells and ash:Scattering these two things around the pile will send the ants in the opposite direction.
- Limestone:Add crushed limestone to the compost as it neutralizes the pH of the pile and keeps the small insects away.
- Vinegar:Spraying vinegar near the compost pile can force the ants to migrate.
Prevent ants in the compost heap
- Inspect all wood and plant debris for ants before adding them to the pile to avoid accidentally ending them in the compost.
- Pour coffee grounds on or around the pile as it will keep the ants away. They can't stand the intense smell.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth near the nest or on the ant trails to ensure they don't come near your compost pile.
- Add more nitrogen-rich (green) materials. A compost pile that is too dry can be a sign that your compost contains too high a proportion of carbon-rich (brown) materials such as wood, dry leaves, straw, etc.
- Stick a thermometer into different parts of the compost. If the temperature is below 50°C, it is cool enough to attract ants.
