ARBICO Organics line of Steinernema feltiae Beneficial Nematodes PRO are OMRI Listed for use in organic production. They are delivered in a non-synthetic wettable powder. The OMRI listed beneficial nematodes can be used by both residential and commercial users.
Beneficial Nematodes are live microscopic organisms (non-segmented round worms) that occur naturally in soil throughout the world. The beneficial nematodes we sell are parasitic to insect pests that typically have a developing (larval or pupal) stage of life in the soil. They have been known to parasitize above ground stages of adults, nymphs and larvae. They will not harm mammals, aquatic life, birds, reptiles or amphibians. After being applied to the soil, the nematodes locate pests and enter through various body openings or directly through the body wall. Once inside, the nematodes produce bacteria that is injected into the pest's blood.
Beneficial Nematodes release the bacteria in order to create food and a hospitable environment for their own reproduction. As the food resources within the dead pest become scarce, the nematodes exit and immediately begin searching for a new host. As long as there is a suitable host, they will continue to survive and parasitize.
Shelf Life: Up to 2 weeks (refrigerated and unopened in original container).
How Much Do I Need? Order enough to treat the full infested area. Quantities and treatment areas are approximate.
| Quantity |
Treatment Area |
Shipping Method |
| 10 million |
3,200 sq. ft. |
2nd Day |
| 50 million |
1 Acre |
2nd Day |
| 250 million |
5 Acres |
Next Day |
| 500 million |
10 Acres |
Next Day |
This Product Controls These Pests or Diseases: Beet Armyworm, Black Cutworm, Cabbage Maggot, Codling Moth, Corn Earworm, Crane Flies, Cucumber Beetle, Fruit Flies (Drasophylla), Fungus Gnats (Bradysia impatiens), Onion Maggots, Raspberry Crown Borer, Root Maggots, Sclarids, Shore Flies, Subterranean Termites, Sweet Potato Weevil, Thrips (Franklinothrips sp), Ticks, Tobacco Cutworm
If you are a first time user of beneficial nematodes, please follow the illustrated application instructions for use with a hose end sprayer. If you have questions, please call us at 1-800-827-2847.
For most applications, beneficial nematodes should be mixed with water and sprayed directly into the soil. Hose-end sprayers and pump sprayers work best, but nematodes can also be applied with a watering can, through irrigation and fertigation systems, into certain hydroponics media, and by syringe injection.
What's The Application Rate?
The exact mix rate varies based on the type of sprayer used and the user's speed of movement through the area. The key is to spread the nematode solution as evenly as possible over the full area being treated. We recommend spraying down the area with just water using the sprayer for application to determine roughly how many tanks will be needed for full coverage.
When Should They Be Applied?
- Apply when soil temperatures are above 42°F.
- Apply early in the morning or predusk when temperatures are cooler and the sun is not so bright.
It is best to make at least two applications, separated by 7-10 days to stagger the life cycles of the nematodes and ensure complete coverage. In cases of severe infestations, applications should be made every 7-10 days or until infestation subsides.
Can I Keep Nematodes In Water Until I Apply Them?
Only mix up what you are going to apply at that time. While some nematodes are aquatic, insect-parasitic nematodes are not. Do not leave the nematode/water mixture sitting for more than 2 hours as death can occur. Please call us at 1-800-827-2847 if you have questions about using nematodes in hydroponic environments. For best results, always apply beneficial nematodes as soon as possible after mixing.
How Long Can Nematodes Be Kept Before Use?
Beneficial Nematodes should be used as soon as possible. Because they are living organisms it is best to store them unopened for no longer than 2 weeks in a refrigerator. DO NOT FREEZE.
Should The Soil Be Moist After The Nematode Application?
The soil should be moist at time of application and lightly watered immediately after application. After application, check the application area regularly and water as needed to maintain soil moisture. Generally speaking, water every 3-4 days if rainfall does not occur.
How Long Does It Take To See Results?
After application, the nematodes locate pests and enter the pests through body openings or through the body wall. This may take 7-10 days. Once inside, the nematodes inject bacteria that kill the pest insect within 48-72 hours by causing blood poisoning. Maximum control occurs over 2-4 weeks.
How Often Should Nematodes Be Applied?
Nematodes are recommended for use whenever larvae or grubs are present. Generally, this is during the spring and fall months. Because larvae feed on plant roots, beneath the soil surface, severe damage can be done before realizing there is a problem. Look for signs of an adult insect, such as leaf-notching. If adult insects are present, their eggs will be hatching soon. Keep in mind, one application may not eradicate a population of insects that has become established over a period of years.
Will Nematodes Live Through The Winter?
In general, harsh winter weather in most parts of the country guarantees a significant decline in the population of the nematodes. In most cases, nematodes (just like insects) will become dormant during cold weather. Any survivors would be few in number to provide adequate insect control. If your insect pest returns the following year, another application may be necessary.
When Nematodes Are Applied To One Area Will They Move To Other Areas?
Nematodes are microscopic in size and have limited range of horizontal movement. They move vertically into the soil until they find a pest to infect. As a result, thorough coverage of the area is important for achieving control.
Warranty:
ARBICO Organics guarantees live delivery of product. ARBICO Organics makes no guarantee of effectiveness due to disparities during application. Please call within 24 hours of receipt with any questions or concerns.
Environment: Outdoors, Crops, Orchards & Vineyards, Nursery, Greenhouse, Grow Room, Hydroponics, Aquaponics, Pond & Environment, Household Use, Interiorscapes, Container Plants, Houseplants
Storage: Store refrigerated in original container. Apply as soon as possible after receipt.
