Massive Ant Colony in the Dalek

[KevinM67]

I hope this question is not too silly.

As the title suggests, on checking my compost bin - I've discovered there's a large ant colony in there. It appears to have done wonders with my compost - however, is it OK to use on the plot.

I assume it will be fine - just a bit wary of spreading pests though.

[WendyC]

Use it. As you have discovered they like to live in colonies so won't stay spread over your plot for long. I would imagine they'll regroup and set up home somewhere else. They tend to go for dry places so keeping your compost a bit damper might keep them away in future.

[rustylady]

What Wendy said. I get them in mine too, and they do a good job of mixing the compost up.

[KevinM67]

Use it. As you have discovered they like to live in colonies so won't stay spread over your plot for long. I would imagine they'll regroup and set up home somewhere else. They tend to go for dry places so keeping your compost a bit damper might keep them away in future.

Fantastic - thanks.

I've been using compost from a couple of heaps I started last year - and to be honest, forgot about the stuff I had in the dalek.

You're right it is bone dry !!!

Cheers - will use it this weekend.

[alldigging]

Watering is the easiest, cheapest way of dealing with ants. You might have to do it a couple of times but they won't live in the damp so they do go!

[Two_Sheds]

You're right it is bone dry !

It won't make compost for you if it's dry. Decomposing bacteria need food, warmth & moisture. Water each layer of stuff as it goes in

[KevinM67]

It won't make compost for you if it's dry. Decomposing bacteria need food, warmth & moisture. Water each layer of stuff as it goes in

I know, I know,

.... but with the weeding, digging, sowing, planting, etc. and now watering the composting composting bin, I'm struggling with all this multi-tasking !!!

[Two_Sheds]

Yes, welcome to the life of a gardener



(I'm struggling too)

[alldigging]

I know, I know,

.... but with the weeding, digging, sowing, planting, etc. and now watering the composting composting bin, I'm struggling with all this multi-tasking !!!

Take the lid off it, uncover it and let nature do it for you.