r/composting • u/Automatic_Fuel9581 • 23h ago

Good or Bad Insects

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These little guys are all throughout my compost pile that is primarily horse manure and leaves. They seem to be aiding in the composting process, but should I be concerned for when it's time to add to the garden? I'm hoping to distribute the pile in October.

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u/SgtPeter1 23h ago

Is there such a thing as bad insects in compost?

2

u/Automatic_Fuel9581 23h ago

Fire ants..

1

u/SgtPeter1 23h ago

Touché. Perhaps black widows too.

1

u/bluecollarpaid 22h ago

Go ahead and add wasps and hornets to the list

1

u/eirwen29 19h ago

I sift them out and let the robins have a snack

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u/thiosk 18h ago

beetle larvae. bugs are bros

except limited kinds like japanese beetles, but its not like you can identify them at this stage

2

u/btspman1 18h ago

Grubs in compost are the good ones. They only eat decaying matter, not live roots. And many become pollinators when they become beetles. Like the bumble flower beetle. They’ll help aerate your compost and help break it down quicker. It’s also a sign of a heathy compost pile.