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Rats! (in compost)
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Posted by daisyp NYC (My Page) on Sun, Jan 22, 06 at 15:06
Hi all--
Yes we live in New York City and try to compost in our garden. Unfortunately if a compost bin lets in air it may let in rats or mice. Vermiculture is slow outside and messy and smelly inside (we generate a lot of garbage volume, and we have three worm bins) (Also I think worm castings are not as good fertilizer as compost is--some nutrient(s) is missing. But it may be the only way for us) We also have a small yard. Any suggestions? Daisy |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Rats! (in compost)
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- Posted by jimshy z7 Brooklyn, NY (My Page) on
Mon, Jan 23, 06 at 15:13
| Daisy, I keep wanting to try vermiculture in our basement, but the smell potential keeps my DW from OKing it. We only have a small balcony, so outdoor composting is also out, but you could try one of the rotating compost bins at Gardener's supply or similar -- it's off the ground, so I think rodents would have a hard time getting in, and turning the composter might be good exercise! Jim |
RE: Rats! (in compost)
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- Posted by jview Z7a NY (My Page) on
Mon, Jan 23, 06 at 15:13
Could you use a heavey hardware cloth to let in air but not rats? Also be careful not to allow any meat (bones, fat, etc.) into the compost. Rats are omnivores but are really attracted to meat. Compost should not smell if it is completely vegetarian. Good luck with it.
Jerry |
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