Chafer Grub

We strongly recommend applying, this natural treatment, to your infected lawn or grassed areas between the months of July and October and when the soil temperature is over 14oC. Outside of this period, the treatment will possibly have little effective due to the lower temperature killing off the nematodes. It is also important to remember the life cycle of the larvae and if the nematode treatment is applied outside of the recommended period then the larvae may be too deep in the soil, for the nematodes to reach them in sufficient numbers, or may have left the soil completely.

• Storage of Nematodes
As the nematodes are supplied live, it is preferable to use them as soon as possible, ideally when they arrive but If this is not possible unopened containers can be safely stored in a fridge, for up to 6 weeks, (at or around 4oC) then use as soon as you can. Do not allow the mixture to freeze and please remember the Use Before Date.

• Required Conditions
Chafer Grub Killer nematodes are designed for use on lawns, grassed areas, and other spaces that are showing signs of Chafer infestation. The nematode solution should be watered into the soil. A watering can is the preferred method of application. Apply the nematodes to moist soil and keep the soil moist for 2 weeks following application as this helps the nematodes move within the soil. The nematode solution should not be applied during hours of bright sunshine as the nematodes are UV sensitive. We recommend applying during the early morning or late evening when the UV levels are lower, the temperature will have reduced, and the humidity level will be better suited.

• Before Application
Before applying the chafer grub treatment we recommend preparing so that you will get the most from your investment. To do this we recommend either spiking, scarifying, or heavily raking the grass with a metal leaf/scarify rake. This action will help to break up the surface of the soil, as well as possibly remove dead grass and debris, which will help the nematodes access the soil and bypass the root system of the grass. The area should also be moist prior to application as this also helps the nematodes to get deep into the soil.

• Usage Instructions (based upon the 100m2 pack)

o Empty contents of the sachet into a bucket containing 5 litres of water and mix. Continue mixing until the solution is smooth and there aren’t any lumps. You have now made your nematode concentrate.
o Pour 0.5 litres of the nematode concentrate into a watering can, add 7.5 litres of water, and stir.
o Water the diluted nematode solution into the lawn with each 8 litres covering an area of 10m2. Pour evenly across the area.
o The treated area should be kept moist for 2 weeks after application.

• Next Steps
Keep the treated area moist for 2 weeks after application.
If your grassed area has a very high infestation then multiple applications will be required to eliminate the grubs. If this applies to you then we recommend a second application 2 weeks after the first.

• How long do the Nematodes take to work as I have to reseed my lawn?
The nematodes do not stay on grass but enter the soil. Providing that you have followed the treatment instructions then you don’t need a particular time between treating and seeding. Keep the area watered and both the nematode treatment and new grass seed will be happy.

• Is it easy to apply your Nematodes?
All you need to do is mix the pack contents with water and apply to your lawn. You should take your time with the mixing, to ensure that there aren’t any lumps, then apply to the grassed area with a watering can. We recommend using a large rose as small holes could block.

• When is the best time to apply your Nematodes?
To make the most of the nematode treatment you should apply between the months of July and October and earlier treatments are generally better as, when the grubs are younger and smaller, they are easier to control. Treatments should not be applied when the soil is below 14oC or when there is no sign of chafer grub activity.

• I already have signs of Chafer damage, can I apply the Nematodes in April?
The soil may be too cold to apply the nematode treatment in April, especially during the first half of the month. If the nematodes are applied to soil that is below 14oC they will die upon application. Once the soil temperature is at the required level you will be able to treat the area and control the chafer infestation.

• Is it safe to keep the nematodes in my fridge?
It is perfectly safe to keep the nematodes in your fridge. You should only store unopened containers and ensure that the fridge is set to a temperature of 4oC or lower, however you should ensure that the contents of the container do not freeze so be aware of where they are placed in the fridge. Before going into a fridge, you should make sure that the container is clean and dry. Also, don’t forget about the Use by Date. We all forget about some items once they go into the fridge but please don’t forget about your nematodes.

• How do I know which size treatment pack I should buy?
If you see signs of grub activity in an area of your lawn (or grassed area) then there is a very high possibility that the majority of the lawn will contain the grubs. You should remember this when deciding which pack size is most suitable for you.