White Grub control using Beneficial Nematodes
- What are beneficial nematodes ?
Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms which are capable of infecting
white grubs and other root pests by entering the larval bodies and using
them as a medium for reproduction, thus killing the grub or root pest
in it’s larval stage.
- How to apply nematodes?
Nematodes are cultured on common sponges that are kept moist. These
sponges can be stored for a month in the fridge so long as it is kept
moist. Be sure that the nematodes are fresh!!! Stale, ineffective nematodes
exhibit a “fishy” smell. First, irrigate your lawn to 1
inch depth. Nematodes need moist soil to disperse effectively. To apply,
simply soak the sponge in 4.5 L of ROOM TEMPERATURE water for 30 minutes
and squeeze the sponge to get all the nematodes into the water. This
will be your stock solution, use within two hours and stir periodically,
the nematodes will only survive 2-3 h in the water. If you are using
a hose sprayer, simply fill the spray container with your stock solution
and adjust flow rate to highest setting, most nematode sponges are sufficient
to treat lawns up to 2000 ft2. If you are using a watering can, dilute
1 L of the stock solution into a watering can with 4.5 L of water, then
pour onto the lawn.Following the application the nematodes MUST be watered
into the soil to a ½ inch depth.
- When to apply nematodes?
White grubs are best
controlled in the early larval stage that
takes place in August-Sept. when they are the youngest and smallest.
While the treatment is somewhat effective in April/May, it is much less
so because the grubs are in the late larval
stage (i.e.: they are much bigger). Also, nematodes must be applied
on a very cloudy day or at dusk, direct UV rays from sunlight will kill
them and render them ineffective.
- How long are nematodes effective?
They remain generally active in moist soil for 90 days so a treatment
in mid-August or early September is ideal for optimum results. Do not
allow soil to dry out!
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