Gardening Naturally Ant Nematodes
Gardening Naturally Ant Nematodes
Gardening Naturally ant nematodes (Steinernema feltiae) are a natural organic pest control for reducing ant populations in the garden. These ant nematodes are microscopic transparent worms that live in the soil and feed and multiply inside ant larvae they come into contact with. Unlike synthetic pest control options, these highly specific natural predators will hunt day and night to protect your home and plants from unwanted intruders while leaving other beneficial insects alone.
How does it work?
Gardening Naturally nematodes can be applied directly on or around ant nests, where they will begin predating on the ants, forcing them to move away. They are suitable for use on black, red and yellow ant nests.
How do I use them?
Gardening Naturally nematodes are supplied as a dry powder, which can be mixed with water in a watering can and then applied to the area you want to treat. We advise applying them after the last frost but early in the growing season. Ideally, they should be introduced to the soil after the soil temperature is consistently 10°C or higher and adult ants have been spotted in the garden. Once applied, try to make sure that the soil doesn't completely dry out for at least 2 weeks to ensure that the nematode population remains healthy and strong.
Is it safe?
Nematodes are completely natural and prevalent in most gardens throughout the UK. Gardening Naturally predatory nematodes are simply a more precise and effective version, which will only target the local ant population. They are designed for use where pets and other wildlife are present,
When is the best time to use nematodes?
The best time to use these nematodes would be when the soil temperature is reliably above 5°C, usually by the end of February or March. They can be used all through the warm part of the year up until around October. Of course, if you wanted to use them in a covered environment where the temperature will not drop below 5°C, you could use them year-round.
Application Advice:
- Dissolve the entire contents of the pack in a bucket containing 8L of water to create a solution.
- Stir vigorously and then take 500ml of the solution and add it to a 5L watering can fitted with a coarse rose and fill with water.
- Apply this to a nest
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all of the nests have been treated
In total, you should go through 16 watering cans (80L of water) and cover 16 nests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are nematodes safe for pets, children, and wildlife?
Yes. Beneficial nematodes are safe around children, pets, birds, and other wildlife when used as directed. They target specific insect or slug species and do not affect mammals, birds, or plants.
Can I use nematodes in a greenhouse?
Yes. Several nematode species are particularly well suited to greenhouse use, including those for fungus gnats, sciarid fly, thrips, and housefly. Apply to the growing medium and keep it moist after treatment.
How do I apply nematodes?
Mix the pack with water according to the label, then apply with a watering can fitted with a coarse rose, a hose-end applicator, or a sprayer on a coarse setting. Water in afterwards and keep the soil moist for two weeks.
Are nematodes a form of biological control?
Yes. Nematodes are one of the most widely used biological control methods in UK gardening. They are living organisms that target specific pests naturally, without chemical residues, making them a strong fit for organic and wildlife-friendly growing.
Are nematodes better than slug pellets?
For below-ground slug control, nematodes are generally the stronger option. They target slugs in the soil where most feeding and egg-laying happens, leave no chemical residue, and are safe for wildlife, children, and pets.Read our nematodes for slugs blog for a full breakdown, or see our guide to slug pellets if you want to compare approaches.
Garden Wildlife makes every effort to ensure that the goods you ordered get to you undamaged and in a timely fashion.
Please check the estimated delivery period for individual products on their respective website page and please feel free to contact us with any questions before ordering.
Delivery to Scotland and Off-shore locations may not be possible, could take longer, or could cost more. If there are any issues regarding the delivery address our team will email you as soon as possible.
We will always send you as much tracking information as possible regarding your order. Our team is also available to contact at sales@gardenwildlife.com should you need us.
You may also like
Recently viewed