Chafer Grub Killer Treatment 1000m² - 10000m²

This chafer grub killer is a biological chafer grub treatment containing Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, a native species of entomopathogenic nematode (microscopic worm) that controls chafer grub larvae infestations safely and effectively. Controlling chafer grubs in turf calls for a proactive, preventative approach.

Key Features

• Contains the native nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
• Safe, effective biological control of chafer grub larvae
• Also treats cockchafers (larvae susceptible from mid-June until the end of August)
• Treating in the correct window prevents both direct grub damage and indirect damage from predators digging for grubs the following spring and summer
• A sustained nematode life cycle can significantly reduce chafer grub populations in later years

How It Works

The nematodes move through the soil seeking out chafer beetle larvae and enter the pest through its natural body openings. Once inside they release bacteria (Photorhabdus spp.) that stop the grub feeding and kill it quickly. The nematodes then reproduce inside the dead grub, releasing a new generation of infective juveniles that spread into the soil in search of further prey.

When to Apply

There is a single application window in the pest's life cycle suitable for treating garden chafer grubs: late summer to autumn, from the middle of July to the middle of October. This period coincides with the larvae being young and susceptible, and with soil temperatures warm enough to support good nematode activity. Once soil warms again the following spring, the larvae will have grown to a stage at which any form of control is far less effective.

Cockchafers can also be treated with this product; their larvae are only susceptible from mid-June until the end of August.

How to Use

Preparing to Apply Nematodes

1. Order: arrange for the nematodes to arrive 1-2 weeks before the forecast application period so they can be applied in the best conditions. Aim to apply 4-5 weeks after peak adult flight time.
2. Store: keep in a refrigerator at between 2-6°C.
3. Monitor: aim to apply 4-5 weeks after peak adult flight time; apply in the morning, in the evening or on a cloudy day; and apply when rain is forecast.
4. Irrigate: apply 5-10 litres of water per m² the evening before treatment, then a further 5 litres per m² 1-2 hours before treatment.
5. Aerate: use a spiked roller to aerate the soil so the nematodes can move more quickly through the soil profile. It is important that the nematodes reach the soil as fast as possible; excessive thatch will hold this up.

Applying Nematodes

1. Equipment: remove all filters from the application equipment, checking the lance handle, the top hat filters at the nozzle and the filter bowls in the pipework after the pump. Use a suitable nozzle, i.e. a flat fan nozzle with a coarse droplet size. Make sure the sprayer is completely clean, then fill it with half the required amount of clean water.
2. Nematodes: empty the pack into a clean bucket holding 5 litres of water. Stir well and leave to soak for 20-30 seconds. Stir again and pour all of the solution into the spray tank through its sieve, then top up until the tank holds the required amount of solution.
3. Application: spray the nematode solution straight away onto the prepared surface at a maximum of 12 bar pressure. Apply with a penetrant wetting agent to help the nematodes pass into the soil profile.
4. Post application: irrigate immediately afterwards with at least 2-5 litres per m² to wash the nematodes into the soil, and keep the area moist for at least 2 weeks after application.

Specifications

• Active organism: Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (entomopathogenic nematode)
• Application window: mid-July to mid-October (cockchafers: mid-June to end of August)
• Storage: refrigerated at 2-6°C
• Maximum spray pressure: 12 bar

Notes

Use within 3-4 weeks of receipt and keep refrigerated until use.