(photo courtesy of James Lindegren)

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic insect parasites which attack soil-dwelling insect pests. These soil dwelling pests are difficult to control with the use of traditional pesticides. It has been proven that beneficial nematodes will infect various species of caterpillars, cutworms, crown borers, grubs, fungus gnat, beetle larva and a variety of other destructive insect pests. Insect parasitic nematodes do not harm plants or earthworms.

For more in-depth info on our parasitic nematodes please follow the links listed below:

How beneficial nematodes work: 

Infective juvenile nematodes migrate through the soil in search of insect hosts. They enter the pest insect through the mouth, spiracles or other body openings. Once inside the pest insect, the nematodes release an associated bacteria. This bacteria rapidly multiplies and kills the host. The nematodes feed on the bacteria and decomposed host tissue. They continue development and reproduce within the host until the food supply has been exhausted and population density necessitates their emergence. Third stage juveniles then form a protective cuticle which helps protect them from the soil environment, becoming what is referred to as an, "infective juvenile". After entering into the soil, infective juveniles actively begin searching for a new host.

Uses for beneficial nematodes:

 Insect parasitic nematodes are effective against a wide range of known species of pest insects. Once inside the host, death may occur within 24-48 hours. As a long term control agent, nematodes continue to reproduce and seek out new pest hosts for extended periods of time providing soil temperature, moisture and host availability are optimal. In field crop applications, nematodes will infect and kill cutworms, grubs, root worms and other soil dwelling pests. For greenhouse pest control efforts, nematodes are particularly effective against fungus gnats and aid in the control of pupating thrips. Orchard pest control is enhanced against codling moth, lepidopteran pests that bore into tree bark and pests that are found in the soil during various stages of their life cycle. Parasitic nematodes invade and destroy white grubs, Japanese beetles and other harmful pests commonly found in lawns and turf. It is important to identify exactly what pest insect is being targeted. We can then advise you of the proper species of nematode for release.

Applying nematodes successfully:

 Nematodes need a moist environment to survive and move through the soil. Soil should be damp prior to application and should be re-watered after application to aid the nematodes' dispersal into the soil.  Keeping the soil moist for several days after application is recommended. It is important that soil be damp but not saturated. Too much water can be as detrimental to their survival as too little. Soil temperatures ranging from 60 to 80º  F are optimal for nematode survival and movement.  We can provide exact optimal temperature recommendations specific to each species. Nematodes should be applied in the evening to avoid exposure to ultraviolet light and the sun's drying effects.

We determine the Minimum Application Recommendations (ie. application timing, frequency and amounts) using the following criteria:

Application Techniques:

 Infective juvenile nematodes are unevenly dispersed on damp sponge material or packaged in liquid suspension for shipment. Short term storage and application instructions will be included. Nematodes may be applied using a watering can, backpack sprayer, hose end sprayer, automatic injection system or other large commercial equipment. Nematodes can withstand up to 300 PSI. Temperatures above 80 º  F. are detrimental to nematode survival. Nematodes should not remain in standing water for prolonged periods without agitation or aeration. Application should take place within 1 hour of placing nematodes in dispersal water.  

DO NOT USE chlorinated water. *Remove filters in equipment prior to application.

Environmental Safety: 

Beneficial nematodes are naturally occurring organisms. They are not harmful to humans, pets, wildlife, birds, soil, earthworms, water sources or the atmosphere. Beneficial nematodes are exempt from testing and registration by the Environmental Protection Agency which means that they can be used safely and legally on all crops. Beneficial nematodes from M&R Durango, Inc. are approved for use in organic crops.

Shelf Life:

 Short term storage of nematodes prior to application can be accomplished by refrigerating them at temperatures of 38-42° F.  We do not recommend storing nematodes for extended periods of time. We can generally provide sufficient quantities on a routine basis to meet your needs with fresh, active and viable nematodes.