The Power of the Worm
Beneficial nematodes are nature's most effective biological pest control solution. These microscopic roundworms seek out and destroy soil-dwelling pests while remaining completely safe for plants, pets, and beneficial insects.
What Are Beneficial Nematodes?
Beneficial nematodes are naturally occurring microscopic roundworms that live in soil environments worldwide. Unlike plant-parasitic nematodes, beneficial species are predatory and target harmful insects in their larval stages. They work by entering pest larvae through natural body openings and releasing bacteria that kill the host within 24-48 hours.
Key Benefits of Nematode Pest Control
- 100% Natural & Organic - OMRI listed for organic production
- Safe for All - Harmless to plants, pets, children, and beneficial insects
- Fast Acting - Kills target pests within 24-48 hours
- Environmentally friendly - Reduces the need for chemical pesticides
- No Resistance - Pests cannot develop immunity
- Easy Application - Simply mix with water and apply
Nematode Species & Target Pests
Steinernema feltiae
Best for: Fungus gnats, western flower thrips, shore flies
Ideal conditions: Cool, moist environments (55-85°F)
Applications: Greenhouse production, houseplants, mushroom farms
Steinernema carpocapsae
Best for: Flea larvae, cutworms, armyworms, webworms
Ideal conditions: Surface application, moderate temperatures (60-85°F)
Applications: Lawn care, turf management, garden beds
Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Best for: Grubs (Japanese beetle, chafer, May/June beetles), weevils
Ideal conditions: Warm soil temperatures (70-85°F)
Applications: Lawn grub control, root weevil management
Steinernema kraussei
Best for: Black vine weevil, strawberry root weevil
Ideal conditions: Cool temperatures (40-70°F)
Applications: Berry production, ornamental plants, container growing
Steinernema riobrave
Best for: Mole crickets, citrus root weevil, billbug larvae
Ideal conditions: Warm climates (65-95°F)
Applications: Southern lawns, golf courses, citrus groves
Application Guidelines
When to Apply
- Soil Temperature: 55-85°F for most species
- Timing: Early morning or evening to avoid UV damage
- Moisture: Apply to moist soil, water in immediately
- Season: Spring through fall when pests are active
Application Rates
| Nematode Product | Standard Rate | TIming |
|---|---|---|
| Sponges | 1 million/1,000 sq. ft. | Weekly or as needed |
| Trays | 50 million/1,100 sq. ft. | Every two weeks |
| Trays | 50 million/550 sq. ft. | Every 4-6 weeks |
Application Methods
- Watering Can: Mix with water, apply as soil drench
- Sprayer: Remove filters, use low pressure
- Irrigation System: Inject into drip or sprinkler systems
- Hose-End Sprayer: For large area applications
Storage & Handling
- Refrigerate immediately upon arrival (35-45°F)
- Use within expiration date for maximum viability
- Do not freeze - this kills the nematodes
- Mix gently to avoid damaging nematodes
- Apply within 2-4 hours of mixing
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Nematodes work best as part of a comprehensive IPM program:
- Prevention: Proper sanitation and cultural practices
- Monitoring: Regular pest scouting and identification
- Biological Control: Nematodes, beneficial insects, predatory mites
- Cultural Control: Crop rotation, resistant varieties
- Chemical Control: Only when necessary, nematode-compatible products
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Poor Control Results
- Check soil temperature and moisture
- Verify correct species for target pest
- Ensure proper application timing
- Increase application rate for heavy infestations
Nematode Viability
- Test viability before application
- Check storage temperature
- Verify expiration date
- Avoid chlorinated water when mixing
Seasonal Application Calendar
Spring (March-May)
- Target overwintering grubs and weevil larvae
- Apply S. kraussei for cool-season pests
- Begin fungus gnat control in greenhouses
Summer (June-August)
- Peak application season for most species
- Focus on grub control with H. bacteriophora
- Continuous fungus gnat management
Fall (September-November)
- Target late-season grubs before winter
- Apply preventive treatments for next season
- Continue greenhouse pest management
Compatibility with Other Products
Compatible Products
- Most organic fungicides and bactericides
- Beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizae
- Organic fertilizers and soil amendments
- Predatory mites and beneficial insects
Avoid These Products
- Chemical insecticides (wait 2 weeks after application)
- Copper-based fungicides
- High-salt fertilizers
- Chlorinated water
Success Stories & Case Studies
Greenhouse Fungus Gnat Control: Commercial greenhouse reduced fungus gnat populations by 95% using S. feltiae in a weekly application program.
Lawn Grub Management: Golf course eliminated Japanese beetle grubs using H. bacteriophora, reducing chemical pesticide use by 80%.
Organic Berry Production: Strawberry farm controlled root weevils with S. kraussei, maintaining organic certification while protecting crop yields.
Expert Support & Consultation
At Sound Horticulture, we provide comprehensive support for your biological pest control program:
- Pest Identification: Free consultation to identify target pests
- Species Selection: Expert recommendations for your specific situation
- Application Guidance: Detailed instructions for optimal results
- Follow-up Support: Ongoing assistance to ensure success
Ready to get started? Shop our complete selection of beneficial nematodes or contact our biocontrol specialists for personalized recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are nematodes safe around children and pets?
Yes, beneficial nematodes are completely safe. They only target specific insect pests and cannot harm mammals, birds, fish, or beneficial insects.
How long do nematodes last in the soil?
With adequate moisture and food sources, nematodes can establish and reproduce in soil for several months to years, providing ongoing pest control.
Can I apply nematodes with other biological controls?
Absolutely! Nematodes work excellently with predatory mites, beneficial insects, and other biological control agents as part of an IPM program.
What's the shelf life of nematodes?
When properly refrigerated, most nematode species remain viable for 2-4 weeks. Always check the expiration date and use promptly for best results.
Do nematodes work in hydroponic systems?
Yes, certain species like S. feltiae work well in hydroponic and soilless growing media for controlling fungus gnats and thrips.
How do I apply nematodes?
Water is the carrier to get nematodes where you want them. For small scale gardens, create a nematode solution in a bucket and water onto the crops by hand or with spray equipment. For large scale growers add nematodes to irrigation systems, spray equipment or use a dosatron, but remove alll filters less than .5mm and do not exceed 200 psi on the spray pump. See our Nematode Tech Sheet for more details.
How can I tell if the nematodes are alive?
Place a few drops of water in a clear container or petri dish and add a small number of nematodes. Use a black background and a hand lens or microscope to observe the nematodes. Within a few minutes live nematodes will be actively moving and have a curvature to their bodies. Dead nematodes will be still and straight as a pin. It’s a good idea to always check nematode viability before an application. We guarantee live delivery and ask that you report any problem within 24 hours. Please do not discard the product and take pictures if as needed.
Thanks for sticking with us through this long Nematode Guide and for your dedication to organic pest control. We appreciate your business and please call with further questions or for clarification. (360) 656-6680
