I have some strange bugs at the foot of my roses. When I water they come out by the thousands making the area look like it is covered with saw dust. On close inspection the are whitish, about 2 mm long. My roses don't seem to mind. Should I ? And if so what to treat with (my garden is 100 % organic so no pesticide unless it is an emergency). Thanks for any help.
I usually see those when I water my compost. I think they help break down the organic matter; I think they must be good guys. Don't know what they are though. I look forward to hearing from someone who knows!
Thanks Debby. Its nice not to be alone with unknown bugs. I do add a lot of compost to my roses (not always completely finished I have to admit.)
Not sure what they are but consider diatomaceous earth as a potential insecticide. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diatomaceous_earth
What if they are good bugs? I would hate to destroy any friendly guys. They don't seem to bother the roses. (I am the one who freaked out!)
Any change you'd be able to snap a photo of them? I know bugs move fast and this may be difficult. Sounds like the same bugs I have coming out of my English ivy.
The bugs are actually rather slow they are like tiny, wriggly, grains of rice with no legs. I tried to take a picture but I have an old camera and it was not clear enough. I will try again. I seem to only have them in the bed with established roses and the beds rich in compost regardless of the plants. The roses in pots are not affected.