Harness the power of biological control to banish pesky garden pests

Few things disturb the peacefulness of a garden more than discovering slugs munching on the vegetable patch and vine weevil larvae infiltrating pots and planters. Thankfully, beneficial nematodes offer an easy and effective solution to rid the garden of these unwanted pests, without causing harm or disruption to other wildlife, unlike other pest control methods. This is why they’re used by professional growers, organic farmers and gardeners across the country! 

Not only are nematodes effective at controlling and diminishing common pests but applying them to the garden is also very simple. In fact, it’s as easy as watering your garden! In just five simple steps, you can safeguard your precious plants for up to six weeks and ensure your hostas remain intact, and the vegetable patch thrives.  

1. Firstly, determine which nematode product(s) are necessary by evaluating your specific pest issue. If you notice hole-riddled, ragged leaves with remnants of silver slime, it's likely a slug infestation is underway in your garden. On the other hand, vine weevil larvae tend to target plant roots and are frequently found in pots and planters, so inspecting the soil can uncover any hidden grubs on lacklustre plants. Once the pest is confirmed, it's time to buy your nematodes. Once delivered, keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to apply, and use before the expiration date. 
2. Considering the conditions outside is also important before applying. Nematodes function most effectively within a specific soil temperature range, typically between 5°C and 30°C, depending on the species being used. Additionally, it's recommended to apply them when UV light levels are low, making morning or dusk the optimal times for application! 
3. When you’re ready to apply, simply mix your chosen nematodes with water into a watering can or sprayer. Mix thoroughly to ensure no lumps are present and to activate the mini worms! For watering can applications, it is important to use a coarse rose to prevent any nematodes from getting stuck in the little holes. 
4. After application, keep the area moist for a few weeks. This helps keep the nematodes active and hungry for pests! Watering the application area in the evening or early morning is preferable, as it prevents the sun from drying out the soil and diminishing the nematodes’ efficacy.  
5. Implementing a consistent nematode routine can make sure your garden stays protected all through the growing seasons. Since nematodes can remain active in the soil for up to six weeks, applying a fresh batch at that point will guarantee ongoing protection. 

What are beneficial nematodes? 

Beneficial nematodes by BASF, are microscopic worms that provide biological pest control against a variety of garden pests, including slugs, vine weevil, leatherjackets, sciarid fly and so much more. Nematodes are applied directly to soil where they seek out its intended prey, and attack by entering the body of the pest through natural openings. Once inside, nematodes release a type of bacteria which ultimately kills the host beneath the soil. When pest populations have declined, the nematodes die off and return to normal levels naturally found underground. 

Beneficial nematodes are compatible with organic gardening methods, and are considered safe for plants, pets, children, and wider wildlife. 

To find out more about how nematodes work, take a look at this short video - https://youtu.be/JHNG1KSluh0  

For further information and to find a list of stockists, please visit https://www.nemasysinfo.co.uk/ and follow @basf_nemasys_uk on Instagram. 

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Editors notes

Nematodes are naturally occurring microscopic worms, already present in our soil. Beneficial nematodes attack and kill targeted garden pests. They are compatible with organic farming, easy to use and can even be kept in your fridge!

Research scientists have isolated the nematodes that kill specific garden pests including Slugs, Vine weevils, Leatherjackets, Caterpillars, Codling moth and much more.

BASF’s state of the art production facility in the UK produces billions of nematodes in a form that is easily applied by gardeners. Over 20,000 different species of nematodes have been classified, although some estimates put the total figure closer to one million! BASF has the largest specialist nematode production facility in the world, growing trillions of beneficial nematodes for use in their Nemasys range of pest control products.

BASF experts are available for interviews, features and expert comment on biological pest control management, and product is available for reviews, competitions and product trials.