DESCRIPTION
Nematodes are microscopic worms that inhabit the soil parasitizing immature stages of pest insects, including various species of larvae, grubs, nymphs, and pupae. Maintaining adequate moisture levels is crucial for the success of nematodes, as they depend on a film of water to move and locate hosts in the soil. Dry conditions can limit mobility and reduce effectiveness in parasitizing pests. Conversely, excessive water can lead to unfavorable conditions, such as waterlogged soil that may drown the nematodes or water runoff that could wash them away.
The lifecycle begins with mated females producing eggs that develop into pre-infective juveniles. These young juveniles are in a non-feeding stage, progressing through several molts until they develop into infective juveniles eager to feed. Infective juveniles actively seek and enter hosts through natural openings, releasing symbiotic bacteria toxic to the pest. The insect host dies within 2-5 days, and the juveniles feed on the tissues, often completing several generations inside the host. After the host has been consumed and depleted, the nematodes enter the soil in search of new hosts. Mature nematodes will mate, and females will produce eggs, repeating the cycle for as long as conditions are favorable.
TEMPERATURE
Soil above 53°F
INTRODUCTION RATES
Preventative/Light: 5 million per 300 sq. ft.
Moderate/Heavy: 5 million per 50 sq. ft.
It's important to note that these release rates serve as general guidelines and may vary based on the specific pest species, the crop or plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the subsequent effectiveness of the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.
INTRODUCTION METHODS
Nematodes are not a chemical, so their effectiveness will not be reduced by the amount of water used to create the release solution. Adjust the concentration of the solution based on the extent of the pest infestation and the size of area to be treated.
- Introduce indoors at any time, or outdoors in the morning, evening, or on a cloudy day.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
PREPARE
- Moisten the soil to improve habitat. Keep soil moist for two weeks after application.
- Avoid run-off.
ACTIVATE
- Mix nematodes with 1-5 gallons of water (59-69°F) to cover the desired area.
- Dilute to create volume needed for coverage of area.
APPLY NEMATODE SOLUTION
- Introduce solution onto desired area with chosen apparatus.
- Use within 6 hours of activation.
WATER
- Water the treated area immediately after application.
- Keep soil temperature between 44-86°F
