Save your houseplants and seedlings from Sciarid fly/Fungus gnats and larvae damage with our parasitic nematodes.
Biological controls are not always kept in stock, they are ordered in fresh. This can sometimes lead to a time lag between when you place the order and when it is despatched.
The adult fungus gnats/sciarid flies live on and around the compost surface of pots, more commonly indoors rather than outside. The flies themselves are an unsightly nuisance but most of the damage is caused actually by their young. The small white larvae live in the compost and feed on the tender roots of plants and cuttings. They will also come to the surface to feed.
Nematodes are more effective if the sciarid population is high. The nematodes are watered on, and attack the sciarid larvae underground. 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 breathing or feeding systems, 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.
Combine with yellow sticky traps for better control. A second treatment may be required depending on the level of infestation and the life cycle stage of the pest.
How much do I need?
When to use
How to use and store
Questions
The pack size is 60 square metres. This is the maximum it will treat but you can use it for smaller areas or small collections by using less water to mix it up.