Combating grubs with nematodes

Grubs: What are they and how do you combat them effectively?

Grubsare the larvae of various beetle species, such as the cockchafer, June beetle and rose beetle. They live underground and feed on the roots of grass and plants, which can cause serious damage to gardens, lawns and agricultural crops. Fortunately, you can combat grubs in a natural and environmentally friendly way usingnematodes(nematodes).

Features

Grubs are beetle larvae, usually white or cream-colored, and have a C-shaped posture. They are 2 to 5 cm long, with a hard, brownish head and small legs. Grubs have a segmented body and live underground

How do you recognize damage caused by grubs?

Grubs cause damage mainly by their feeding on the roots of plants. The most common signs of grub damage are:

• wilting and yellow leaves:Plants and grasses affected by grubs may wilt, with yellow or brown leaves due to damaged roots.
• Dead grass spots:Bald spots or dead areas may appear in the lawn, often in a circular or irregular shape.
• Loose soil: The grass can easily be pulled out of the ground because the roots are damaged.
• Damage to roots: When digging up the soil, damaged or broken roots may be visible, often with mold or rot.
• Presence of adult beetles:You often see an increase in adult cockchafers or rose chafers in the area, which may indicate an underlying larval population.
• Digging behavior of animals:Pets may dig more intensively in areas where grubs are present because they can smell the odor of the larvae.

Indirect damage and additional risks

In addition to the direct damage from root feeding, grubs can cause secondary damage. Birds and other animals dig up the soil in search of the grubs, which can lead to even larger bare patches in your lawn and further soil disturbance. In addition, weakened plants can become more susceptible to diseases and pests.

Choose a natural approach

One of the most effective and environmentally friendly ways to control grubs is to usenematodes(Heterorhabditis bacteriophora). These nematodes infect and kill the grub larvae from the inside. The advantages of this biological control method are:

• Environmentally friendly: Nematodes specifically target the grubs and leave other beneficial organisms in your garden alone.
• Effective and sustainable: Under the right conditions, nematodes can95% of the grubskill, which helps to control the pest for a long time.
• Safe for humans and animals: This natural method is completely safe for children, pets and other animals, making it an excellent choice for both private gardens and public spaces.

When to use nematodes against grubs?

The best time tonematodesThe best time to use them against grubs is in late spring or autumn, when the larvae are still young and smaller than 2 cm.Nematodes of the species Heterorhabditis bacteriophoraare most effective at soil temperatures of12°C to 25°C. Mix the nematodes with water and apply them to the affected lawn or garden. Make sure the soil remains moist after application, so the nematodes can spread and do their work.

With thisnatural approachCombat your grubs effectively, without using harmful chemicals.Order nematodes todayand protect your lawn and plants from further damage by grubs!