All About Nematodes - Your Questions Answered

Gardening Naturally answer their most frequently asked questions about nematodes, including what they are, how they work and how to use them in your garden or allotment.

 

What are Nematodes?

Nematodes are an organic, natural way of controlling many types of pests, helping you to manage infestations without the use of harmful and unnatural chemicals. Nematodes are microscopic worms that can be found in the soil.

 

How do Nematodes work?

You will require the specific type of Nematodes for the pest you are looking to control. For example, slugs, leatherjackets or vine weevils. The way that Nematodes work differs depending on type.

Slug Nematodes feed and multiply inside the slug until it stops feeding and disintegrates.

Vine Weevil Nematodes work by seeking out and killing vine weevil larvae.

Ant Nematodes encourage ants to move their nests elsewhere as ants cannot tolerate the nematodes being near their nest.

Leatherjacket Nematodes seek out the leatherjackets and attack the pest by entering natural body openings, releasing bacteria that stops the pest from feeding and quickly killing the pest.

Chafer Nematodes actively search for white grubs present in the root zone, the nematodes then multiply inside the grub until it decomposes.

To read more about the different types of Nematodes we stock click here.

 

How long do the Nematodes live?

Nematodes can be stored in a refrigerator for 2-4 weeks (always check the expiry date located on the inside packaging). Once in the soil they work for approximately 6 weeks.

 

Where should I store the Nematodes before use?

Keep them in the refrigerator. Do not freeze or expose to high temperatures.

 

How do I apply Nematodes?

All Nematodes are mixed with water and applied using a hose end applicator. The Coarse Watering Can Rose is ideal for applying Nematodes, with a 1.5mm hole size. Full instructions come with each pack of Nematodes as they may vary slightly for different types of Nematodes.

 

Where should I apply Nematodes?

Apply the Nematodes anywhere that the pests are found and the surrounding areas.

 

Does the area I apply the Nematodes need to be clear of shrubs, flowers, fruit and veg?

No, the area doesn’t need to be clear. The Nematodes will be soaked and absorbed into the soil. Nematodes are safe to use around any plants or produce.

 

Can I eat produce that has been treated with Nematodes?

Yes, just wash your produce in the usual way before consuming.

 

Are Nematodes harmful to wildlife, animals and children?

No, the Nematodes are safe to use around all wildlife, animals and children, except the pest they are targeting. Pets and children can access the area straight after Nematodes have been applied without causing any harm to themselves.

 

Can I apply Nematodes through landscape fabric?

This depends on the size of the holes in the fabric, the holes will need to be at least 1.5mm x 1.5mm for the Nematodes to get through,

 

Can I use more than one type of Nematode at the same time?

You can apply different types of Nematodes straight after each other to the same area. However, don’t mix two different types in one application.

 

How often should I water the area after applying Nematodes?

Ensure the soil is moist and the temperature is above 5ºC before applying the nematodes. Water daily if required, ensuring the soil does not dry out for at least 2 weeks.

 

Can I use a liquid lawn feed after Nematodes have been applied?

Leave for 2 weeks between applying Nematodes and feed.

 

Can I put topsoil on after I have applied Nematodes?

It is recommended to leave it a couple of days after application to ensure the Nematodes have worked their way into the soil, you can then add topsoil.

 

When can I cut my lawn after applying Nematodes?

We would advise to wait a couple of days for the Nematodes to enter the soil before cutting the lawn.

 

How do I order?

On the product page, select how many deliveries you require and then choose a day on the calendar to arrange delivery. Once this is done, click add to cart. Full instructions come with each pack of Nematodes. You can choose additional dates to place future orders for consistent application. Click here to view all types of our own brand and Nemasys Nematodes.

 

Pest Control & Biological Controls:

We have a wide range of organic, natural pest control solutions for the garden and allotment. Including garden, insect, household and fruit pest control as well as biological control.