Beneficial Nematodes
Beneficial nematodes are a naturally occurring, extremely effective control of many soil-borne insects such as grubworms, fleas, ticks, termites, chinch bugs, fire ants and larval forms of thrips and grasshoppers. They are completely harmless to people, animals, plants, and other beneficial organisms such as earthworms. To apply beneficial nematodes, place the sponge in a container of approximately one gallon of water. Gently wring the sponge out and the result is a gallon of water with a concentration of the nematodes. Put a portion of this concentration into a pump-up sprayer and fill with water. Apply this mix to the affected areas and repeat until the recommended coverage is achieved. The amount of water is not critical as it is used only to disperse the nematodes. Beneficial nematodes should be applied to moist soil or turf areas during the evening hours. They can be applied 2 to 4 times a year. If chemical pesticides have been used, wait at least 24 hours before applying nematodes. NOTE: We carry only live nematodes which are more effective and preferable to products containing the spore form of nematodes.
Semaspore Bait
This bait contains a naturally occurring bacteria which substantially reduces grasshopper infestations when properly applied. This bait is most effective against very young grasshoppers. It is harmless to people, animals, and other insects. To apply Semaspore Bait, sprinkle it lightly in areas where grasshopper concentrations are the highest in buffer zones 10 to 15 feet wide around the affected areas. There is no need to water the product in. Grasshoppers may take several weeks to die; however, they stop feeding immediately after ingesting the bait. During this time the grasshoppers which have ingested the bacteria may be cannibalized by other grasshoppers thus spreading the bait further through the population. In cases of extreme infestation, Semaspore Bait may need to be applied repeatedly throughout the warm season.
Trichogramma Wasps
Trichogramma wasps are nearly microscopic, non-stinging wasps which very effectively prevent damaging infestations of many types of caterpillars. These include pecan case bearers, webworms, and tent caterpillars, among others. They are completely harmless to people and animals.
These wasps lay their eggs inside the eggs of the caterpillars, and their larvae then destroy the caterpillar eggs as the young wasps grow. To be most effective, the timing of the release of the wasps is critical.
When the wasps are purchased, they are actually sold as moth eggs, containing the wasp larvae. The eggs are sold on small squares which resemble sand paper. To release the wasps, simply pin one or two squares as high as possible to the shady side of the trunks of trees where control is desired.
To be most effective, trichogramma wasps must be released at specific times of the year.
