Product Description
What is it?
Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer is a biological pest control, containing Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, a species of nematode (microscopic worm) that naturally infects Chafer grubs. Nematodes are often used in horticulture as a safe, chemical-free, yet highly effective pest-control product.
How does it work? (Not for the squeamish!)
Juvenile nematodes will infect young Chafer grub larvae through their natural openings. Once inside the grub, the juvenile nematodes release bacteria, which stops the Chafer grub from feeding and therefore kills it quite quickly. The juvenile nematodes then grow into adults within the grub, reproducing for 2 or 3 generations, until their food supply starts to dwindle. Thousands of new juvenile nematodes are then dispersed into the soil to search for new grubs.
How effective is it?
When used correctly, biological pest controls can be incredibly effective. Proper use of nematodes can significantly reduce populations of Chafer grubs in the effected areas in subsequent years.
Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer must be used within 3-4 weeks of being received, keep refrigerated until used.
See below for application instructions and timings.
Nematodes can only survive in soil temperatures over 12 degrees Celsius, and can only effectively infect Chafer grubs at an early stage in their development, so please note that using this product outside of the listed timings is not advised and will results in poor performance or complete failure of the product.
Why should I consider nematodes over chemicals?
Targeted application – Nemasys products contain specific species of nematodes, chosen for their host range, to greater improve the chances of infection. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, the nematode in Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer, is a naturally active searcher within the soil, and as such is most effective at finding sedentary insects such as the Chafer grub. Therefore you are unlikely to accidentally harm beneficial insects as a side effect of using this product.
Harmless – Invertebrate pathogenic nematodes pose absolutely no threat to plants, animals, people or the environment. As such they can be used near organic and edible crops. Biological controls are a great choice for those governed by organic practices.
When/why might chemicals be a better choice for me?
Stability – As biological controls are living organisms, they are often much less stable than chemical treatments and require a relatively large amount of aftercare after application. Nematodes have a short expiry date and must be kept refrigerated while you are waiting to use them.
Simplicity – Nematodes must be treated gently during application – agitating the solution too vigorously can kill them off – and the treated site must be kept moist for at least two weeks after application.
