The most commonly used beneficial nematodes are
Steinernematidae carpocapsae, S. feltiae, S. glaseri,
Heterorhabditisheliothidis, and H. bacteriophora. They are effec-
tive against many pests including weevils, cutworms, chinch bugs,
white grubs, clearwing borers, fungus gnats, and sod webworms.
These beneficials are sold commercially as biological
insecticides. They can stay viable for months as long as they are
kept at the correct temperature, and mix well with fertilizers and
pesticides. They are considered environmentally friendly by the
EPA since they occur naturally, are not genetically modified, and
do not harm vertebrates. There is no evidence insects develop
resistance to the bacteria these nematodes produce.
How to Use Beneficial Nematodes in Your Garden
Beneficial nematodes can be purchased from most garden
centers, dormant in a powder. To use, add them to water and
spray them on your plants and soil. Be sure to remove the screen
in your sprayer so they can get through.
“JUST ONE HANDFUL OF
SOIL CAN CONTAIN
OF THEM.
millions
Because they must be stored at the correct
temperature to remain viable, you can
guarantee their viability before use by
adding them to water and observing them
under a microscope.
It is important to apply beneficial nematodes
in the correct conditions. They require warm,
moist soil to be effective, so it is a good idea to
irrigate the garden before and after application.
Because they travel in water, watering the
garden after application helps to move them
around and find hosts. The ideal conditions also
include high humidity, moderate temperatures,
and indirect sunlight. Applying them in the
morning or evening is best.
As gardeners, we need to understand and
prevent potential threats to our gardens. By
applying beneficial nematodes and using best
practices to reduce plant parasitic nematodes,
we can take care of these threats in a way that’s
effective and won’t harm the environment.
Maximum Yield
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