Gardening expert warns that adding these three items to your compost bin could be attracting rats and foxes to your garden.
Foxes and rats can be drawn to these items(Image: sandra standbridge via Getty Images)
Gardeners have been warned that chucking particular bits and bobs into their compost heap might be luring rats and foxes straight into their back gardens. Composting offers a brilliant method for disposing of household rubbish whilst simultaneously giving your garden a boost.
Kitchen leftovers and garden debris can be effortlessly transformed into nutrient-packed earth for your plot. Whilst plenty of folk cheerfully chuck items into their compost container and wait for magic to happen, certain materials ought to be steered clear of.
Rodents and foxes flock to compost heaps seeking refuge, warmth and food, reports the Express. Loads of gardeners choose enclosed containers and maintain spotless surroundings.
Keep these items out of your compost bin(Image: Kilito Chan via Getty Images)
Yet regardless of how diligently you safeguard the container, these creatures will keep coming back if you chuck in three particular materials.
Horticulture specialist Michael Griffiths has revealed his trio of items that must never find their way into the compost heap, particularly throughout the colder months.
He cautioned: “Three things you don’t want to add to your compost heap in winter. Don’t dump loads of christmas-dinner>Christmas dinner and scraps all at once. Remember, it is best to feed your compost bin little and often.
“[And] glossy or coated carboard from your Christmas presents won’t break down in a winter heap. So, stick to brown cardboard instead.”
He continued: “And finally, your Christmas turkey, cooked meats and dairy as these will attract foxes and rats even more in winter.”
Michael further elaborated on the hazards of chucking meat and dairy into the compost heap. He warned: “Cooked meat, dairy, or anything oily. These attract rats and foxes even more in cold weather. Keep it plant-based only.”
If you’re adding food to your compost bin, ensure it’s well buried so pests can’t easily sniff it out. It’s suggested to cover fresh food scraps with a thick layer of leaves or cardboard.
This not only masks odours but wards off unwanted visitors. Keeping your compost bin active is a nifty trick to deter rats and foxes as it maintains the compost’s heat.
Pests are drawn to cooler piles, so give the heap a good stir regularly. This makes it tough for pests to set up home in the compost bin as you’re constantly unsettling the pile.
It’s always wise to keep the vicinity of the bin spick and span, so make sure to scoop up any fallen food scraps or spillages.
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