BENEFICIAL NEMATODES TO THE RESCUE.
larvanem
Nematodes are beneficial microscopic insects that travel below the surface of the lawn and attack Japanese beetle grubs. They kill the grubs in 16-48 hours by locating the grub, entering it and infecting the pest with toxic bacteria and killing it. They produce hundreds of thousands of offspring which then search for more pests to infect. They are safe for people, pets, and plants. They are a natural and effective alternative to chemical pesticides and have no detrimental effect on non-target species such as ladybugs, earth worms, and other helpful garden insects.
How do larvanem nematodes work?
After application, the nematodes enter Japanese beetle larvae (grubs) through their cuticle. As they reproduce, a bacteria is released resulting in grub death within 16-48.
Where and when should larvanem nematodes be applied?
In Minnesota, the best time to apply LARVANEM is August and early September. This is when Japanese beetle larvae (grubs) are at their smallest size, and feeding in the top 1-2” of soil beneath turf grass. Apply to the sunny areas of turf grass. This is where Japanese beetle lay their eggs. LARVANEM is compatible with chemical insecticidal controls.
Which larvanem package size fits my needs?
- The small package contains 50 Million nematodes and covers 1,000 sq. ft.
- The large package contains 500 Million nematodes and covers up to 10,000 sq. ft.
For best results:
- Store nematodes at 36-42°F (refrigerator) until mixed and applied.
- Remove from refrigeration ½ hour before application so they have a chance to wake up.
- Plan to make application on a cloudy/overcast day or in the evening so they don’t dry out.
- Make sure turf grass is well watered prior to application.
- Water area of application after treatment to move nematodes into the top 1-2” of soil.
- Keep application area moist for 2 weeks following LARVANEM application.
japanese beetle life cycle
As stated above, the best time to apply LARVANEM is August and early September. This is when Japanese beetle larvae (grubs) are at their smallest size.
small package
50 million nematodes (1,000 square feet)
Option 1: Watering can application
1. Empty the contents of 50M package into a 5 gal. bucket containing 1-2 gal. of room temperature water.
- Use water to aid movement of gel carrier
- Avoid squeezing the nematode packet to minimize damage to nematodes.
2. Stir thoroughly and let solution settle for 20-30 seconds.
3. Fill 5 gal. bucket with water, add 2-3 drops of dish washing soap. Stir to mix.
4. Use a minimum of 4 gallons of water.
5. Dump solution into watering can and apply immediately after mixing.
1. Remove metal screen filter from weighted uptake hose inside sprayer reservoir.
2. Empty the contents of 50M package into sprayer reservoir, containing 600 ml of room temperature water.
- Use water to aid movement of gel carrier
- Avoid squeezing the nematode packet to minimize damage to nematodes.
3. Fill reservoir with water, add 1-2 drops of liquid dishwashing soap. Stir to mix.
4. Screw hose-end cover onto reservoir and attach to garden hose.
5. Set dial to 4 oz.
6. Apply the contents of the sprayer to up to 1000 sq. ft. of area immediately after mixing.
large package
500 million nematodes (10,000 square feet)
1. Remove all filters from spray equipment to prevent blockages
2. Empty the contents of the 2, 250M packages into a 5 gallon bucket containing 1-2 gal. room temperature water.
- Use water to aid movement of gel carrier
- Avoid squeezing the nematode packet to minimize damage to nematodes.
3. Stir thoroughly and let solution to settle for 20-30 seconds.
4. Fill 5 gal. bucket with water, add 2-3 drops of dish washing soap. Stir to mix.
5. Add mixture to spray tank at a rate of 1:10. One part solution to 10 parts water.
6. Apply immediately after mixing.
o Use a maximum pressure of 12 bars (174 psi)
o Spray nozzle openings should be at least 0.50 mm (500 micron) for nematodes to pass through.
Information and video content courtesy of Kopperts Biological Systems