Maggots and larvae in compost - where do they come from?
The term maggot covers a large number of different insect species. This includes flies and all types of beetles.
also read
- How to prevent wasps from building nests
- Maggots on raspberries - what can be done about it
- Are mice in compost harmful?
These lay their eggs in the compost. There they first develop into maggots and later pupate into larvae.
While To fly Primarily a nuisance, beetles can pose a real threat to the garden, especially when they are in high concentration.
Fighting maggots in compost
Larger maggots can be picked out by hand or with the spade dig up and then destroy. If the infestation is very severe, cover the compost with a thick layer of dry material. For example, foliage and Lawn clippings. This prevents air circulation and the maggots die.
Make sure that the compost is kept dry as the maggots will also dry out.
On means like Quicklime, Vinegar and salt and other home remedies should be avoided in the interests of garden health. They do more harm than good.
Sift compost well before use
If you have discovered thick white maggots in the compost heap, you should sift the compost thoroughly before spreading it in the garden. The maggots are filtered out and can be fed to birds, for example.
Preventing maggots in the compost
Prevention is not always possible. Beetles such as rose beetles, cockchafer or scarab beetles lay their eggs in the compost, where they grow into maggots.
On the other hand, you can prevent infestation by fly maggots by properly filling the compost. Not allowed to be composted animal waste how:
- Leftover meat
- sausage
- animal waste
- Dog poop
- Litter boxes
- cooked leftovers
Tips
Before putting garden waste on the compost, inspect it well for possible pests, maggots, and larvae. Especially with roots, there is a risk that you will drag the dangerous black weevil onto the compost.
