BENEFICIAL NEMATODES How Do Beneficial Nematodes Work? Beneficial Nematodes are applied to soil where they locate pests, enter through orifices or body walls and infect pests with toxic bacteria. Once inside, it is not the nematode that actually kills the pest, but bacteria inside the nematode.
What Are Beneficial Nematodes? Beneficial Nematodes are live, microscopic organisms (non-segmented roundworms) that occur naturally in soil throughout the world.
The bacteria kills pests within 24 to 48 hours. Beneficial Nematodes then feed on bacteria and host insect tissue. Adult stages of Beneficial Nematodes produce hundreds of thousands of new juveniles.
They are parasitic to insect pests that typically have a developing (larval or pupal) stage of life in the soil; however, they have been known to also parasitize above ground stages of adults, nymphs and larvae.
New infective juveniles emerge loaded with “pest killer” bacteria and begin their search for a new host. As long as their is a suitable host, the Beneficial Nematodes will continue to parasitize. Beneficial nematodes can be used around and will not harm mammals, aquatic life, birds, reptiles or amphibians.
Apply To Soil For Control Of Target Pests:
How Do I Apply Beneficial Nematodes?
• Beetle Grubs • Flies • Fungus Gnats
DO NOT OPEN PACKAGE UNTIL YOU ARE READY TO APPLY Beneficial Nematodes are applied to the soil mixed with water. Since they are alive and sensitive to light, apply early in the morning or at dusk. It’s easy to apply nematodes.
• Rootworms • Thrips • Weevils
• Leafminers • Worms • And more!
How Do I Choose the Right Beneficial Nematodes? Use the Selection Chart on the next page to choose the proper species by pest(s). If you are unsure which nematode to use or your target pest is not listed, please call and one of our bio-control specialists can assist. Remember Beneficial Nematodes control soil-dwelling life stages.
When & How Often Should Beneficial Nematodes Be Applied? Use beneficial nematodes whenever larvae or grubs are present. As pest larvae feed on plant roots beneath the soil surface, severe damage can be done before you realize you have a pest dilemma. If adult insects are present, their eggs, nymphs, larvae and pupa will soon be developing. FOR TREATMENT: Apply nematodes every 7-10 days until pest infestation subsides. FOR PREVENTION: Apply at least 2-4 times per year in the spring, summer, fall and winter as needed.
Before applying, make sure the soil is moist. Mix Beneficial Nematodes with enough water for coverage area. Apply pre-dawn or at dusk with a hose end sprayer (See sprayer options on page 55), backpack sprayer, pump sprayer or watering can. Lightly water again after application. Keep area moist for at least 2 weeks. Complete nematode application instructions available online and in the package.
Foliar Applications: Beneficial Nematodes should be applied to the foliage in higher humidity and plants should be kept moist for 3 or more hours. Spray thoroughly to cover all surfaces of the leaves while avoiding runoff. Reapply weekly. Use in conjuction with soil applications.
Nematodes should be applied when soil temperatures are 42° - 95° F.
How Long Can Beneficial Nematodes Be Kept Before Use?
When Will I See Results?
Beneficial Nematodes should be used as soon as possible. If you need to store them, it is best to store them unopened in a refrigerator for no longer than 2 weeks. Once opened, use immediately and entirely.
Beneficial Nematodes are considered to be one of the most lethal parasites known to kill plant pests. Depending upon the pest(s) you are treating and the method of application, it can take from 2-30 days for you to see results. It is important to remember that Beneficial Nematodes disintegrate pests from the inside out. You will not see dead insect bodies as you would with a chemical knockdown. Instead you will notice less of the pest(s) over time. Like all insects and organisms, some nematodes will survive the winter in a dormant state; however, we recommend re-applying at least 2-4 times on an annual basis to ensure that your pests do not get out of hand again.
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