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Soil, Compost & Mulch

fireflies in hot compost

19 years ago

I've got several nice piles going with last fall's leaves and my recent lawn trimmings. As I was turning them over to mix in fresh clippings, I saw quite a few fireflies. Temps have been cool here- 50-60's- are the beetles seeking warmth or trying to lay eggs? Should I just let the piles alone for a while? I enjoy their light shows very much, and anything that eats slugs is a friend of mine!

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Comments (3)

pablo_nh
19 years ago
Because of their intense luminosity, as well as the requirement for dark conditions for composting, they will slow your pile's progress by as much as 30%. Further- if you let them live- their luciferin will contribute to light pollution and interfere with migratory birds and lunar moth's patterns.

Immediately sterilize the pile by boiling bit-by-bit in a 4 quart sauce pan on the stove. Please- for the good of the planet.
newtxan
19 years ago
Nonsense!

You've got the makings there for bioluminescent compost. With it, you'll be able to grow jack-o-lantern pumpkins that need no artificial light source.
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pablo_nh
19 years ago
Dang- photosynthesis at night, to boot.

Genius. Pure genius!

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