Hi, I have collected horse manure fresh from a field for composting. Some of the piles had hundreds of little beetle type insects in. Is it ok to add this manure into my compost bin with my grass cuttings etc? Southern England uk
These will, usually, be killed in the composting process, while adding nutrients to the compost. It will be ok to use this in your pile. Most insects that are native to feces will not harm plants, as their diet consists of digested plant material.
The other day I read one of your information articles about composting with grass squares. I intended to come back to it but can't find it now. I've laid the grass squares with the grass side down but not sure what to do next - vaguely remember to water it thoroughly and cover it so no light gets in. Do I need to add anything?
You should make sure that your brown to green material is optimal for composting. I will put a link here to all of our composting articles. These will help you learn all that you need to know about composting. Here is the link: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/
I've inherited a compost pile that is under a black walnut tree. I would be a dolt if I use it for flowers and tomatoes, correct.?
Nope, not a dolt!
Ohio State University looked into the matter and the reply is yes: juglone decomposes within weeks in contact with air, water and bacteria. If the leaves are shredded, decomposition is even quicker. And once decomposed, walnut leaves apparently give a compost of excellent quality.
Walnut sawdust and wood chips as well as walnut husks, however, are slower to decompose: it is best to compost them for 6 months before using them in the garden to be sure the juglone has thoroughly decomposed.
Is it ok to use tea bags in compost/garden bed?
Yes, this article will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/ingredients/composting-tea-bags.htm
No photo neede
My suggestion would be to have your compost tested. You'll never know what you need to add just by guessing. I would also have your garden/farm soils tested, so you can cater your remineralization of your compost to the soils onto which it will be applied.
I will include an article to get started, and then I will include our entire collection of compost articles. This will give you all of the information that you will need to know.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/ultimate-beginners-guide-composting.htm
Thank you in advance!