[Mama Lori]

This is a continuation of "Maggots in compost" but I started a new thread because of the misleading thread title. I now realize these are probably grubs, not maggots.

Anyway, I just added dolmite lime (agricultural lime) as recommended in the last thread, to attempt to kill the grubs. Since I had added a thick later of wood shavings on top of my pile, the grubs are underneath. If I were to dig a small hole in the center of the pile, it's Grub City. I guess I am easily grossed out, because I do not have it in me to even dig that hole. The vision of grubs would stay with me for too long, I'd have nightmares about them, etc. I tried to stir it up a bit and as soon as I saw the large things squirming around I doused them with lime. Geez I ended up pouring the whole box in there. I am sure it would be more effective if I stirred the whole pile and mixed the lime throughout, but I just can't do it!! Is there any hope for me and/or my pile? Any other tips on getting rid of grubs??? They are so sick! Would concentrated vinegar help? Do grubs grow up to be anything? I noticed these large black fly-like insects around the pile, disgusting looking beetle/fly things - are these adult grubs?AAAGGH! Help?

thanks

 

[gardenmom]

I know you can buy bacteria or nematodes that will parasitize and eventually kill the grubs, but I think you need to know what grubs they are so you can get the right stuff.

For example, Japanese beetle grubs are killed by 'milky spore'. But I don't think Milky spore works on a lot of other larvae. Do you have a local cooperative extension office that you could bring a bug into for identification?

 

[Mama Lori]

We probably do have a cooperative extension office. I will have to check into it. "Bring a bug" ew ew ew that means I have to actually scoop one up, which means actually looking at it! I am such a wimp. My 11yo is interested in bug identification right now so maybe I can convince her to put one in a jar. Do you know of any book or other reference that discusses this? Thanks.