Eco-Conscious Gardening: Nematodes

Eco-Conscious Gardening: Nematodes

What are Nematodes?

In short, nematodes are nature’s very effective method of pest control. Nematodes are worm-like microscopic organisms that are found naturally in soil and water. They are a major component of all soil and sediment ecosystems, and occur in every continent on earth, even Antarctica. They can broadly be divided into two types: parasitic and beneficial. Beneficial nematodes target specific pests without negatively affecting other species.

 

Why use nematodes as pest control in your garden?

If you’re looking for an organic, natural way of controlling pests in your garden, nematodes are a good choice. They target and kill only specific pests, making them extremely effective at eliminating pests whilst not harming other wildlife. This targeted approach also makes them cost-effective as just one or two applications should greatly reduce pest populations that would otherwise be difficult to control. Many insecticides face bans due to their impact on non-target species and on biodiversity, whereas nematodes are completely safe to use around humans, pets and other wildlife.

 

How and when do you use nematodes?

·       Nematodes arrive in a paste which needs to be mixed with a small amount of water to make a slurry before adding to a larger volume of water (follow the instructions that come with them for specifics).

·       If using a watering can for application, use a coarse rose to ensure the nematodes can pass through.

·       The targeted pests and their larvae need to be active for the nematodes to work, so application is generally done in spring or autumn. Agralan recommends the soil should be 12°C or warmer for nematode application.

·       Nematodes are light sensitive, so apply them in the morning or at dusk for best results. Results should be seen within 3 to 7 days, with best results seen over 2 to 4 weeks.

·       As they are a live product, nematodes are best if used straight away, however they can be stored in the fridge for a few weeks if necessary.

 

Common pests that nematodes can eliminate

Slugs
Evidence of pest: Eaten leaves. Young, fleshy leaves are targeted, usually overnight.
Nematode to use: Agralan Slug Control Nematodes (Phasmarhabditis sp.) – These are safe to use near edibles; they are found naturally in the soil. Infected slugs will hide and die underground, and as the nematodes live underground, snails won’t be affected.
When to use: Use between March and October, when the soil is consistently above 5°C. A second application can be done 6 to 8 weeks later.

Leatherjackets (larvae of crane fly)
Evidence of pest: Yellow/brown patches on your lawn, as leather jackets attack the grass roots. Lift a section of turf and they will be visible underneath.
Nematode to use: Agralan Leatherjacket Control Nematodes
When to use: Best to apply in the autumn when the adults are laying and the soil is warm. A second treatment can be applied in the following spring.

Ants
Evidence of pest: Nests
Nematode to use: Agralan Ant Nest Control Nematodes
When to use: April to September, when the soil is consistently above 12°C. Treatment can be repeated after 4 to 6 weeks.

Chafer grubs
Evidence of pest: Lawn has yellow patches and areas may be dug up by birds, foxes and badgers looking for the grubs.
Nematode to use: Agralan Chafer Grub & Vine Weevil Dual Control Nematodes
When to use: Between July and September, or when pest is present and soil is above 12°C.

Vine weevils
Evidence of pest: Plants wilt and die during autumn or spring because of larvae eating roots; container grown plants are more susceptible. The grubs can easily be seen in the roots, whilst the adults will leave irregular shaped notches in leaf margains.
Nematode to use: Agralan Vine Weevil Larvae Protection Nematodes
When to use: In Spring and Autumn (check the recommended month and soil temperature on the packet).

Fungus gnats
Evidence of pest: Tiny black flies in the home that breed in moist soil. Seedlings roots can be damaged by them.
Nematode to use: Agarlan Fungus Gnats Control
When to use: Any time of year, as long as the soil is 12°C or warmer.

 

Here at Trevenson Moor, we now offer a nematode order service supplied by Agralan. Simply choose and pay for the nematode voucher pack you need in-store, then when you’re ready, claim them from Agralan’s website and the nematodes will arrive by post. Make the switch to this eco-conscious method of pest control and see great results, whilst being confident you’re adding only naturally found organisms back into the environment.