There are hundreds of millions of species of living creatures all over the world. Some of them are visible only with the help of the electron microscope while some are visible by the naked eye. However, one species that has proven to puzzle scientists all over the world is nematodes. Nematodes belong to one of the most diverse phyla and are said to be one of the most ubiquitous organisms seen. These can be found in soil, freshwater, on the floor of the ocean and even in the crust of the earth. Some of these are predatory and can infest plants, animals and even human intestines. However, there are a few beneficial nematodes as well. These are small worms that can range from microscopic sizes to a size as large as five centimeters. However, many beneficial nematodes have been noted to be helpful as they help to save plants from pest infestations. Let us take a look at these nematodes and how they help salvage lawns.
How do Beneficial Nematodes Act?
Nematodes that are said to be helpful for garden lawns act in many ways. Their main target is grubs, which are basically tiny, white colored larvae of June beetles and Japanese beetles. Nematodes enter the host cell and reproduce in it. This leads to weakening of the grub and it eventually kills it. Before the grub completely dies, nematodes move to the next grub and begin the same cycle. The best part is that these worms do not harm plants and cause no damage to them. The best way to ensure maximum effectiveness of nematodes is to use them when the grubs are still small and vigorously feeding, as they then become lethargic and it becomes difficult to kill those using nematodes later. Also, when using nematodes ensure that your lawn is always slightly lower than room temperature. Furthermore, nematodes cannot tolerate extremely strong sunlight as they get neutralized and damaged due to ultra violet light exposure, so it's best to apply them to your lawn or affected area when the weather is slightly rainy or at least reasonably overcast.
Where can I Buy Nematodes?
There are many ways to procure nematodes . You could buy them from your local horticulturalist by asking around or you could buy them from the numerous brands of organic pest control farmers that work hard to breed them. Usually, a small packet should do if you have to deal with a small area of your lawn. This is because even a small packet of nematodes contains around fifty million of them, waiting to act.
Thus, there are many reasons why beneficial nematodes have become a favorite of gardeners all over the world. These are truly nature’s way of keeping unwanted pests out of your garden. Be sure to buy these nematodes from the right and authentic source and also be sure to use them at the right time because once the grub larvae stop feeding, you will be hard pressed for something effective against them.