What are Nematodes?

Nematodes are a commonly used biological control for many plant pests, microscopic beneficial nematodes (eel worms) which are watered into pots, trays or open ground.

Parasitic nematodes seek out suitable hosts by swimming in the thin film of water on soil particles, locating hosts by detecting carbon dioxide and other waste products. Once they find a host, they enter the body cavity through the mouth, anus or spiracles, and release bacteria (Xenorhabdus). The bacteria kills the host within hours, and the nematodes grow and reproduce within the 'broth', which they produce. The next generation of infective juveniles leaves the dead host, and moves in search of fresh hosts. Infected hosts become brown and flaccid, but once dead can be difficult to find in soil.

Don't forget that these are live creatures, and cannot be stored - you can keep them in the fridge for a week or so, up until the use by date on the packet, but after that the nematodes will slowly die off.  

What can you treat with Nematodes?

Nematodes are really popular for slugs, Vine Weevil, Chafer Grub, Leatherjacket, Ants and Sciarid Fly.  See below for the solutions we offer.