These are commonly called white curl grubs. They are the larvae of various beetles, including African black beetles and scarab beetles. In a compost heap, they can be quite helpful feeding on decaying organic matter and aiding decomposition. However, in garden beds, they may nibble on plant roots, leading to wilting or even plant death.
When using your compost, be sure to pick them out and return them to the compost pile. This ensures they continue their beneficial role in decomposition. If you discover curl grubs in the soil, avoid killing them. Instead, relocate them to the compost. This gentle approach protects your plants while supporting the beetle life cycle and maintaining garden biodiversity.
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Family planting fun: what to grow this month
