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When it is hot in midsummer, kitchen and garden waste starts to decompose in the organic waste garbage can. Annoying flies then like to gather on the lid and maggots cavort between potato peelings, grass cuttings and food waste. An unpleasant smell also spreads. Here are some tips on how to deal with these.
The higher the temperatures in the organic waste garbage can and the more humid the organic waste, the faster the plant waste and food waste begin to decompose and rot. The waste garbage can should therefore be placed in a shady location and not directly in the sun. Placement in closed rooms should also be avoided. Otherwise, fungal spores can increasingly accumulate in the room air due to the low air exchange.
To keep the moisture in the garbage can as low as possible, wrap the moist kitchen waste in newspaper or collect it in paper bags before disposing of it. This helps keeping the container clean for a longer time. Under no circumstances should compostable waste bags made of bioplastics be thrown into the brown garbage can to collect organic waste, as they do not decompose completely in the fermentation and composting plants and contaminate the compost.
In summer, the organic waste garbage can should be completely cleaned after emptying. Residues at the bottom of the bin can be rinsed out with a water hose. If necessary, the inside of the bin can also be scrubbed with a toilet brush and a little vinegar. Important – let it dry before refilling.
Here is a solution to fighting maggots that have settled in your bio waste container by using some simple and inexpensive household remedies…
Using a refillable spray bottle, produce a vinegar-water-mix (1:1 ratio – vinegar essence works more efficient as it is concentrated), and spray the interior walls and floor, let it settle for a few minutes
Generously spread the bin with sodium bicarbonate, aka. baking soda
SALT: each time, add an additional layer of salt over the newly disposed waste
LAVENDER: if you happen to have a garden that contains a lavender bush, you can also add a couple (2-3) of freshly cut lavender twigs.
Rock flour or algae lime can bind the moisture in the garbage can and reduce the infestation. These additives are available from construction and garden stores.
Information on organic waste collection and other waste management questions for the City of Kaiserslautern can be found in the city’s online garbage guide with searching for “Garbage Guide for the City of Kaiserslautern.”
The Kaiserslautern County offers a Garbage Guide for Smartphones. Just look for “Garbage Guide KL County-App.”
