GENERAL INFORMATION: Beneficial nematodes (Steinernema feltiae) are microscopic roundworms which prey on soil and wood-boring pests, such as flea larvae, white grubs, cutworms, strawberry weevils, cabbage root maggots, and fungus gnat larvae. They act by penetrating pest hosts and in conjunction with bacteria they carry, kill most hosts within several days. Steinernema complete their lifecycle in the host’s body, which culminated in the emergence of juvenile nematodes. The entire cycle takes between 7 to 14 days. This particular species of nematode is not harmful to humans, domestic animals, earthworms, ladybugs, lacewings, or praying manti.

RELEASE: Beneficial nematodes (BN) may be released any time of the year when the soil temperatures are 60° F or above. In the Bay Area, release from March to November is safe. BN thrive in moist soil conditions, but will not withstand soggy soils. They also cannot withstand direct sunlight, so must be applied after sundown or in shaded areas. Populations remain effective for up to 2 years, but annual application is recommended for maximum efficacy.

COVERAGE: Each package contains 7 million BN and covers up to 2000 square feet. Faster results occur with higher concentrations.

DIRECTIONS: Water the areas to be treated, thoroughly, the day before spreading the BN. BN are usually stored and sold in a container of moist vermiculite or imbedded in a sponge. For application of BN in vermiculite: The container and its vermiculite are dumped into a pail or water (2 to 2 _gallons or per the instructions with the BN). The BN, vermiculite and water are allowed to stand for one-half to one hour when the vermiculite will float to the surface and the BN will settle in the water.

The vermiculite will hold a few BN so it is completely skimmed off (as with a sieve) and scattered in a flower bed. The remaining liquid is then applied per instructions using a water can, spray tank or hose end sprayer. If the BN are embedded in a sponge, it is placed in a container of water and squeezed a few times, then into clean water and squeezed some more. The two solutions are mixed and applied as with the vermiculite procedure.

© 2004 Wegman’s Nursery