Nematodes are a good line of defense also because of the large number of hosts they infect and kill. Among the many species beneficial nematodes feed on are fleas, gnats, weevils, cutworms, and several species of wood borers.īeneficial, predatory nematodes are a good ‘quick fix’ for the organic lawn as they begin to kill grubs and larvae within 24 hours of being ingested. An application of nematodes can assist in all around organic pest control. Destructive insects and beetles, such as the highly destructive Japanese beetle, begin as lawn grubs. If pests have plagued your plants and trees as well, look to the ground. Remember that most insect invaders start with grub and larval forms in the ground. It is also a good idea to pay attention to what pests are plaguing the rest of your organic yard and gardens. Apply nematodes when grubs or larvae are present. Predatory, or beneficial nematodes are most successful when applied to a moist, recently irrigated organic lawn with soil temperatures between 55 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit. Predatory nematodes occur naturally and are not considered a threat to humans and pets as there is no evidence that they can survive and develop inside such a host. As beneficial insect larvae are usually faster moving and more active, they are seldom the victims of nematodes.Įarthworms are not parasitized by nematodes. ![]() Predatory nematodes infect a very wide variety of lawn parasites (over 200 larval insect species) and will kill most of the larval insects invading an organic lawn. Beneficial nematodes go through four stages of growth and exit the host body during their third stage of maturation to begin the cycle again. Once nematode eggs hatch, the young nematode larvae feed on the broken down interior of the insect larvae. Beneficial nematodes enter through the skin or an orifice on the larvae, mature, and lay their eggs. Nematodes carry bacteria that break down the internal structure of the host (grub or larvae) through enzymes.ĭeath of the host occurs within 24 to 48 hours. Beneficial nematodes control insect and grub populations by infecting the host, usually a grub or insect larvae. Nematodes, commonly referred to as 'beneficial nematodes' or 'predatory nematodes,' are microscopic worms. To remedy the situation in your organic lawn, you need to reintroduce predators and restore the natural balance so that the one species does not take over without restraint. Harsh chemicals and pesticides can kill more than just target insects.īirds and other beneficial, predatory insects that feed on lawn parasites are often killed as well, and in the absence of natural enemies, grubs and parasites may thrive as insect populations reproduce more quickly. ![]() Many times, an imbalance is the direct result of the use of wide spectrum pesticides and chemicals meant to solve the problem at hand.
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