Nematodes are recommended for use whenever larvae or grubs are present. Generally, this is during spring and autumn. Treat the same area again for a further 16 minutes to apply the remaining nematodes as well as to make sure they are adequately watered in. As these voracious larvae feed on the grassroots, your turf’s ability to absorb water and nutrients diminishes, leaving it vulnerable to stress and disease.

It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal effectiveness. Insecticides Egg Stage: It all begins when adult crane flies, commonly known as daddy longlegs, lay their eggs in the soil during the late summer or early autumn months. These small, cylindrical eggs are often clustered together and hidden within the grass or vegetation. First, I would find an area of the lawn that looks damaged, an unusual bare or brown patch, for example. Next, I would do a classic pull test; healthy grass will have strong roots and won’t be easy to pull up. I’ve found that diseased or damaged grass will have weak roots that give way easily. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore their lifecycle, identify signs of infestation, and share effective prevention and control measures. Soil temperatures should be above 10℃ for the nematodes to be active, if applying in the spring. How Do I Apply The Nematodes?Control:NematodesVariousproductscontaining Steinernemafeltiaeand S.carpocapsae,including Nemasys Fruit and Veg protection andBox tree caterpillar killer. In spring, when the ground temperatures rise, they will reappear and start consuming the grass roots and some top growth. Be vigilant all winter. Keeping an eye on your lawn through the dark winter months is important. A professional winter treatment will spot problems before they turn serious. You can then take steps to control their numbers.

Control: Nematodes Steinernema feltiae (spring application)and S. carpocapsae (summer application). Larvae (maggots) of a hoverfly Sphaerophoria ruppelli .About half of the hoverfly species found in Britain are predatory on aphids as larvae. The predatory green maggots of S. ruppelli are sometimes sold comercially and can be released on aphid affected plants. Treat the same 100 sqm area again for a further 16 minutes to apply the remaining nematodes as well as to make sure they are adequately watered in. You can buy them online. We recommend the range from the Organic Gardening Catalogue. Instructions on useOnce you’ve removed all the damaged patches, apply good-quality topsoil to the bare soil, making sure it’s level with the rest of the lawn and re-seed. Choose grass seed that’s suitable for the soil and aspect of the garden. It is important to choose the correct nematode for the right type of pest. And to use them in the right conditions. It is very important to irrigate immediately after application, water the grass well so the nematodes are washed below the thatch layer into the soil to reach the roots where the larvae will be feeding.

The parasitoids are usually specific to certain prey species and will not become a nuisance or cause harm to non-target creatures If adult insects are present, their eggs will be hatching soon. Again, you may have to make repeat applications. Furthermore, the loss of healthy roots compromises your lawn’s resilience, making it more susceptible to other pests and environmental pressures. Prevention and Control MeasuresEnvironmentally friendly and safe for children, pets and wildlife. No need to exclude children and pets from treated areas.