Compost Help in Houston
Compost Help in Houston: Get on the Right Track!
Compost questions are some of the most common we receive from Houston homeowners. If you’ve spotted bugs in your compost pile, noticed ants, or wondered why it’s not breaking down, you’re not alone! In this guide, Garden Guy Todd Farber (Aggie Horticulturist) answers a real Houston gardener’s question — and shares practical steps to keep your compost healthy.
Houston’s Garden Guy
Whatever garden problem you have, he’s seen it and knows how to best solve it.
Are “Roach-Looking Bugs” in Compost a Problem?
If you see large brown, roach-like insects in your compost, don’t panic. These are usually wood roaches (also called palmetto bugs) and other decomposer insects. Unlike indoor cockroaches, these bugs live outside and actually help break down organic matter.
Why they’re there: Compost piles full of dry materials attract insects looking for food and shelter.
What to do: Keep your pile moist (like a wrung-out sponge) and add nitrogen-rich “green” material (grass clippings, food scraps, coffee grounds). A hotter, wetter pile discourages ants and reduces bug activity.
Balancing Browns and Greens in Houston Compost
A healthy compost pile depends on the right ratio of browns (carbon-heavy) and greens (nitrogen-rich).
Browns: pine needles, dry leaves, shredded paper, soil.
Greens: kitchen scraps, grass clippings, coffee grounds.
👉 Aim for about 2 parts browns to 1 part greens.
Right now, many Houston gardeners build piles with mostly pine needles and dry leaves, which slows decomposition. Adding more greens jump-starts the process.
Quick Compost Health Check
Here’s how to troubleshoot a compost pile in your yard:
Too dry → add water and greens.
Too many ants/roaches → turn the pile, moisten it, and cover with a tarp to trap heat.
Bad smell → add browns (dry material) and turn for airflow.
Turning your compost regularly introduces oxygen, which speeds up decomposition and reduces odor.
What About Bermuda Grass in Compost?
Many Houston homeowners struggle with Bermuda grass. If you don’t mind it in your lawn, that’s fine — but be careful adding it to compost.
Avoid tossing runners and roots unless your compost pile gets hot (140°F+).
If your pile is cooler, Bermuda runners can survive and sprout when you later spread compost in the garden.
Trusted Houston landscaping advice — no radio static.
Final Word: Bugs in Compost Are Normal
The bottom line is this: bugs in compost are not a bad sign. They’re a natural part of the breakdown process. Your pile simply needs more water, more greens, and a little turning.
✅ Keep your compost moist.
✅ Add nitrogen-rich materials.
✅ Balance with browns to prevent odor.
With these tweaks, you’ll soon have dark, rich compost to feed your Houston garden.
Want a Simple Compost Recipe for Houston Yards?
If you’d like a step-by-step compost recipe you can print , find that here by filling out our form.
And if this advice helped, you can say thanks with a coffee here: Buy Me a Coffee ☕🌿
Author: Todd Farber, Aggie Horticulturist + Garden Guy
Helping Houston and Sugar Land homeowners with composting, landscaping, and garden care since 1991.
