TOP DRESSING
NemaGen ® – Natural Turf Protection That Delivers Results
As turf professionals look to reduce chemical pesticide use, Bionema’ s NemaGen ® offers a reliable, ecofriendly solution for controlling soil-dwelling pests without compromising performance or safety. Developed by UK-based biocontrol specialists Bionema Group, NemaGen ® is a nematode-based biological control that targets common turf pests, including chafer grubs and leatherjackets. These pests are a growing problem across golf courses, racecourses, and public green spaces. They can cause significant damage to root systems, leading to costly repairs, turf thinning, and poor playability.
Easy to apply using standard spray equipment, NemaGen ® introduces beneficial microscopic nematodes that actively seek out and infect pest larvae in the soil. The treatment is 100 % natural, safe for people, pets, and pollinators, and can be used as part of an integrated turf management programme.“ We’ ve seen excellent results with NemaGen ®,” says a turf manager at The Grove.“ Pest pressure dropped 60 % in years 1, 75 % in years 2, and > 90 % in years 3, and recovery was fast and visible.”
Combined with Bionema’ s patented Soil-Jet ® biosurfactant, nematode penetration improves by up to 30 %, ensuring deeper movement through the thatch and more consistent results— even in challenging soil conditions. NemaGen ® is already in use at Mesteg Golf Club and Neath Golf Course, where it has helped turf teams reduce pest damage and restore healthy swards without relying on banned chemicals.
Bionema, a recipient of the King’ s Award for Innovation 2024, is leading the shift toward sustainable pest control across the UK. The company offers technical support, agronomic advice, and seasonal pest monitoring to help users get the most from every application. With rising restrictions on chemical insecticides and a growing demand for environmentally responsible turf care, NemaGen is the ideal biological alternative— proven, practical, and performance-driven. NemaGen ® and Soil-Jet ® are available exclusively from Bionema in the UK. For product demonstrations or technical support, call 01792 606916 or visit www. bionema. com
14 GroundskeepingJournal. co. uk | July / August 2025