Composting (Organics Recycling)

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Composting (Organics Recycling) Program 

Composting, otherwise known as the Organics Recycling program is managed by the Department of Public Works. Please click here to learn more about composting (Organics Recycling) in the City of Laurel, including answers to the frequently asked questions below!

 

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What is/isn't compostable?                                                   

Will my compost bin attract pests/rodents?

When does my compost get picked up?                             

Will my compost bin smell?

Composting Tips

Composting is the number one way that individuals can reduce methane gas emissions at our landfills. 

If you have ever experienced fruit flies you know how frustrating they can be.  They are tiny, but oh so annoying for their very short life span (8 to 15 days), but they are very prolific (females can lay up 2,000 eggs and they can turn into maggots)  So how to avoid and conquer?  

Here are some helpful tips to reduce smells and pests that may be feasting on your kitchen countertop compost containers. 

  • Freeze compost directly in the bag provided by DPW.
  • Keep the kitchen countertop container out of the sun.
  • Line the bottom of your compost container with a layer of newspaper.
  • Sprinkle baking soda on newspaper lining the bottom of your containers.
  • Mix some organic tea tree oil with water and spray on the newspaper. 
  • All City-issued kitchen counter-top containers have lids with charcoal filters, so keep the lids on! 
  • Replace the filters every 4-6 months.  Contact DPW for information on getting new filters.
  • Empty compost every 2-3 days.  DPW will provide all composters with free compostable liners for the kitchen countertop carts.
  • Dry the container before adding a new liner. 
  • Throw a sprig of fresh mint in your compost.  
  • Use organic essential oils.  Lavender, lemongrass, eucalyptus, or peppermint help keep the fruit flies at bay 
  • Wash your fruit! Fruit flies can travel on the fruit you purchase outside of your home – just remember the egg story from above and you will always want to wash your fruits and veggies.
  • Use your vacuum hose to suck them up – the sucking action will kill them.
  • Trap the next generation --  pour some apple cider vinegar in a small bowl or cup and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Poke a few holes in the wrap with a toothpick. The flies will be drawn right to the vinegar and will get trapped inside. It may make for an unsightly container on your kitchen counter for a few days, but it will be worth it to rid yourself of the nuisance of fruit flies.
  • Spraying some organic essential oils such as tea tree, peppermint or cinnamon can act as an ant deterrent. 
  • Ants are also not fond of white vinegar and lemon juice.  

 

Banana Peel Trap – you can also make use of fruit flies’ love for banana peels to make a trap:

  1. Place a banana peel in a clear plastic container.
  2. Make three or four holes in the container with a toothpick (a pin should also work).
  3. Place the container near your fruit bowl or compost bin.

Within 24 hours, 99% of the fruit flies should be in the container.