Collection: Frequently asked questions
We get a lot of questions about nematodes. Here are the most frequently asked:
1. What are nematodes?
Nematodes are microscopic beneficial worms. They are between 0.3 mm and 1 mm long and invisible to the naked eye.
2. How do they work?
After applying them, nematodes start actively searching for a host – larvae – to penetrate. Once inside, they secrete bacteria, which kills the host after a few days. The nematodes then feed on the dead larva, allowing them to multiply. The new nematodes then spread beyond the host, in search of new prey.
3. Are there different application methods?
Yes, soil application and leaf application. The two methods are outlined in detail in our instructions for use.
4. How long do nematodes survive after application?
At the right temperature and humidity level, nematodes applied to the soil can survive for around two weeks without finding prey. If applied to leaves, it’s usually just a few days. This is because they are unable to withstand sunlight and will quickly dry out on a leaf.
5. What is the shelf life of nematodes?
We advise distributing them as quickly as possible after receiving them, as they gradually begin to lose their efficacy. If you need to store them for longer, you can store Steinernema carpocapsae and Steinernema feltiae for around a week in a refrigerator at 4-12 degrees Celsius. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora is best used within two days of receipt. Nematodes will not survive being frozen.
As a result of coronavirus and the extra strain on the delivery network, there’s a chance that your package might take a little longer to arrive. We only ever despatch fresh nematodes. If your package takes longer to arrive (up to five days), there won’t be a problem. We still recommend using the nematodes as quickly as possible after receiving them.
6. Are nematodes harmful to people and animals?
No, they are not harmful to people, animals, bees, birds, or earthworms.
7. At what temperature should they be used?
Steinernema feltiae are best used at a temperature of 8-25 degrees Celsius. Steinernema carpocapsae are best used at a temperature of 12-30 degrees Celsius. It’s important to make sure that nematodes aren’t exposed to direct sunlight, so it’s a good idea to distribute them in the evenings.
8. Will all pests disappear after a single treatment?
You’ll often need to repeat treatment, something which is as true of nematodes as it is pesticides (chemicals). This is because pesticides and beneficials often only target a selective stage of a pest's lifecycle. Nematodes primarily attack larvae/caterpillars and not eggs or mature insects. If you have only a minor infestation, efficacy will be high. However, if the infestation is severe, you may need one or several repeat treatments to break the pest’s lifecycle. In addition, the younger the larvae/caterpillars, the more effective treatment with nematodes will be. Older larvae and caterpillars can often be tougher to crack.
9. Can I store the concentrate in the refrigerator?
No, nematodes will survive for a maximum of four to five hours in water. We recommend using the concentrate in full during treatment.
10. Can I use a normal watering can?
Yes, if applying the nematodes to the soil, you can use a normal watering can – just make sure that it’s clean. You can also use our specially designed Nema-T-Pot spreader if you want to distribute them more accurately and quickly.
11. Can I use them in flower boxes and pots?
Yes. The larvae of the black vine weevil and the sciarid fly often occur in flower boxes and pots and nematodes are an effective way of managing these pests.
12. What is the delivery time?
Within the UK, most packages arrive within 1-2 working days. As a result of coronavirus and the extra strain on the delivery network, there’s a chance that your package might take a little longer to arrive. If 5 working days have passed and you still haven't received your order, please get in touch.
13. Do you charge for delivery?
Orders over £15 are delivered free. For orders under this, we charge just 99p!
14. I want to return the nematodes. Can I do that?
Due to their limited shelf life, nematodes cannot be returned. As such we always despatch fresh nematodes, never nematodes that have been returned.
15. How do I use the Nema-T-Pot?
We recommend mixing a sachet of 10, 25, or 50 million nematodes with two litres of water (which we call the concentrate) in a clean bucket. This will allow you to fill the Nema-T-Pot twice. The dial is best set to 60 to 90 ml.
If using a sachet of 250 million nematodes, we recommend mixing with ten litres of water (which we call the concentrate) in a clean bucket. This will allow you to fill the Nema-T-Pot ten times. The dial can be set to between 60 and 160 ml.
Stir the concentrate well before filling the Nema-T-Pot so that the nematodes are evenly distributed within the liquid. Connect your garden hose to the Nema-T-Pot and open the tap fully.
Please note that all connections to the Nema-T-Pot must be tightened firmly. Test different dial positions if you have problems applying the nematodes.