What is this red thing?

Discussion in 'Identification Area' started by Anzia, Aug 16, 2015.

  1. Anzia

    Anzia Gardener

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    Hi everyone :) I'm digging out an area of turf and I keep coming across little red things in the soil.
    They look like red buds but I don't know whether it's a plant seed, insect grub or what. Should I leave them there, bin them, destroy them while wearing a hazmat suit...?
    Thanks! 20150816_093455.jpg
     
  2. Apple Blossom

    Apple Blossom Total Gardener

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    It looks like a moth or butterfly chrysalis not sure which though.... Generally they are attached to the stems of flowers, shrubs, veg etc. have you cut anything down recently that they could have fallen off?
     
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    • JazzSi

      JazzSi Super Gardener

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      It's probably a Moth Chrysalis, many types spend this stage of their life underground.
       
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      • Marley Farley

        Marley Farley Affable Admin! Staff Member

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        • Anzia

          Anzia Gardener

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          Thanks all and thanks @MarleyFarley for the helpful link. They were a good 3" underground, hence my puzzlement! As I unearth them, should I move them to a secluded corner of the garden and leave them above ground, or re-bury them in said corner? I don't want to kill them by doing the wrong thing...
           
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