Should there be flies in my compost bin?

Question

I've just got a compost bin for my garden and have filled it with vegetable peelings and garden cuttings (bits of hedge and lawnmower cuttings). When i open the lid there are LOADS of small flies (not bluebottles...much smaller) buzzing around inside. Is that normal? It's quite unpleasant in there!

Answer 1

OH YES !!!!!!.

Answer 2

They are called fruit flies, if you put in any weeds or plants that you have pulled from the garden leave any soil on them also add layers of soil or old compost along with your veg peelings and clippings this will help keep them down a bit.

I wouldnt worry too much about them though as a previous answer said they do help with the process needed to help break down the compost.

Answer 3

yes fruit flies tiny things

Answer 4

Yes. Quite normal.

Answer 5

It's normal, my ex wife was a piece of sh5t. but flys loved her.

Answer 6

Obviously you and the flies have differing opinions on what is 'unpleasant'!

It's quite normal. Something has to eat all that stuff to turn it into compost and they do some of that. You could stop putting veg peelings in, they attract them the most

Answer 7

Yeah! Where ever there is trash theres always flies!!!!!!!!

Answer 8

Yes flies of all shapes and sizes love rotting things

Answer 9

With regard to the suggestion of Garotta: you will find beer more effective, unfortunately you have to drink it first.

Answer 10

Garotta will help to rot down your rubbish quicker and should also cut down on the flies.