Hi there! My name is Alice, a lovable chocolate lab who loves to help around in the backyard. Sometimes I dig little holes that reveal these little worms. But don’t be alarmed, these little worms, nematodes, are actually not harmful to me or to you! In fact you should keep them hanging around.
Beneficial nematodes are microscopic roundworms that play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy lawn by controlling soil-dwelling pests. Introducing these natural predators into your lawn can significantly reduce harmful insect populations without the use of chemical pesticides.
Beneficial nematodes are effective against a variety of common lawn pests, including grubs, root weevils, and termites. These nematodes seek out and infect their hosts, releasing bacteria that kill the pests within 48 hours. The nematodes then reproduce inside the dead host, continuing their life cycle and spreading throughout the soil.
Unlike chemical pesticides, nematodes are environmentally friendly and safe for humans, pets, and beneficial insects, providing long-term pest control by reproducing and spreading through the soil. By reducing pest populations, nematodes contribute to a healthier lawn and diminish the need for chemical interventions.
How to Apply Nematodes
The best time to apply beneficial nematodes is in the spring or fall when soil temperatures are between 55°F and 85°F.
- Select the right species of nematodes that targets the specific pests in your lawn.
- Water your lawn thoroughly before application to ensure the soil is moist, which helps the nematodes move more easily.
- Follow the instructions on the nematode package to mix them with water. Use a watering can or hose-end sprayer to evenly distribute the nematode solution across your lawn.
- Keep the soil moist for at least two weeks after application to help the nematodes establish themselves and effectively control pests
Keep our yard free of pests by using nematodes for all of us, humans and dogs alike, to play in!