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NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

June 5, 2024/in News, Press Release/by Admin

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae: Chafer season has been slow to start this spring, but is now taking off with adult beetles emerging. Moist soils now make ideal conditions for egg laying, with warmer temperatures for larval hatch and feeding activity. However, warm and moist soil conditions are also ideal for beneficial nematode […]

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

June 5, 2024/in News, Press Release/by Admin

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns: If there’s a saying about the UK’s weather, it should be: “The only thing predictable about the weather is how unpredictable it is.” Right now, we’re experiencing a bewildering mix of sunshine, rain, and everything in between. This unpredictability makes planning outdoor activities, including gardening, quite challenging. […]

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

June 5, 2024/in News, Press Release/by Admin

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

June 5, 2024/in News, Press Release/by Admin

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NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

June 5, 2024/in News, Press Release/by Admin

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae: Chafer season has been slow to start this spring, but is now taking off with adult beetles emerging. Moist soils now make ideal conditions for egg laying, with warmer temperatures for larval hatch and feeding activity.

However, warm and moist soil conditions are also ideal for beneficial nematode action to target larvae in the early stages of the life cycle, advises Syngenta Technical Manager, Sean Loakes.

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

“Soil temperature consistently above 12⁰C for at least three hours a day are ideal for the NemaTrident B nematode species, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, that has been specifically selected to effectively target chafer larvae.”

“NemaTrident B can provide highly effective control of chafer larvae. New trials have shown how we can now best harness the beneficial nematodes in effective Integrated Turf Management strategies.”

He points out that chafer control with nematodes is a numbers game, with the more nematodes applied in the optimum conditions, the greater the opportunity for sufficient parasitic worms to get into the active larvae.

“Chafer grubs are remarkably adept at avoiding nematode attacks, using their pseudo legs to wipe nematodes off their torso. However, if there are sufficient nematodes present they will overwhelm larvae, with potential for good results even on larger instar grubs.

“It’s important to select the most appropriate nematode for the target pest, and applying the maximum number in the best condition. Using a product with a mixed population of different nematodes species could result in too few of the required nematodes in the soil zone or inactive at lower soil temperatures,” he warns.

NemaTrident B nematodes are particularly active at seeking out chafer grubs in the soil. Once they penetrate into the larvae, they release a bacteria that kills it. Nematodes move through the soil in a film of moisture, so are best applied when soils are moist and ideally kept irrigated or moist for 14 days after application. Unirrigated sites pose a serious challenge for nematode use, where they should be applied in a period of rainfall.

“NemaTrident should be applied in conjunction with NemaSpreader, a bespoke blend of surfactants designed specifically to retain the conditions for optimum nematode movement in the soil.” Trials have shown up to 30% better soil pest control when NemaTrident is used in conjunction with NemaSpreader.

Sean advocates NemaTrident B application should be timed after the point of peak adult chafer activity and egg laying, to ensure the nematodes are in the soil profile as the larvae are emerging after three to four weeks; young larvae are the most effectively controlled.

Establishing which species of chafer beetle is the key target species will influence optimum application timing, as well as the population of larvae to be controlled, he highlights.

The most common garden chafer, for example, are typically most active egg laying through mid to late June and only have a one-year life cycle that can be especially well targeted for control; while the summer chafer is most active in July and August, as well as having two-year life cycle that is more difficult to control where older large grubs are present.

“That makes timing and application technique so important to get the optimum results. Nematodes are living organisms, and as such have to be treated carefully from delivery, through storage and to application that will ensure the maximum number are applied in the best condition.”

Seans Top Tips for success with nematodes include:

Store in the fridge at 4-7⁰C as soon as possible on delivery
Pre-mix in lukewarm water before adding to the spray tank
Remove filters from the sprayer and ensure it is clean
Apply in a water volume of 500 – 1000 litres/hectare
Use the Syngenta XC 08 Soil Nozzle
Always use NemaSpreader with NemaTrident applications
NemaTrident B should be applied at a rate of five billion nematodes per hectare

Syngenta trials have shown the most reliable and consistent chafer grub control with an integrated approach using NemaTrident B plus NemaSpreader, following an Acelepryn insecticide treatment.

Recent studies at Forest Pines Golf Course in Lincolnshire – using a well-timed application of Acelepryn at peak egg laying, followed by NemaTrident B – have confirmed that larger chafer larvae stressed or weakened by Acelepryn may prove more susceptible to nematode incursion, to deliver more effective and reliable overall control.

“Where chafer grubs are the primary target this two-pronged approach can give the optimum results,” reports Sean.

“However, turf mangers and agronomists must be aware that only one application of Acelepryn is permitted per season and with limited treatment area, so if leatherjackets are the greater issue the insecticide may be better utilised there, and NemaTrident B the key asset for chafer grub control.”

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Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

June 5, 2024/in News, Press Release/by Admin

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns: If there’s a saying about the UK’s weather, it should be: “The only thing predictable about the weather is how unpredictable it is.” Right now, we’re experiencing a bewildering mix of sunshine, rain, and everything in between. This unpredictability makes planning outdoor activities, including gardening, quite challenging.

Despite the billions spent on weather forecasting, the reality often feels like a joke: “Rain, with showers at times, drying up to become wet later.” This sentiment resonates with millions of gardeners across the UK, who are left wondering, “Where are the droughts we were warned about?”

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

For lawn enthusiasts, especially those with native bent and fescue grasses, the current weather is less of a hassle. These grasses don’t require annual overseeding. However, for those using ryegrasses, the constant rainfall can be a real nuisance. Seeds can become too wet, get washed away, and by the time the lawn looks decent, autumn is already here. Ryegrass might be popular for sales, but it brings its own set of challenges.

So, what can lawn owners do right now to manage their lawns amidst such unpredictable weather? Surprisingly, the answer is: not much. The ever-changing weather means that a heatwave could be just around the corner, and soon enough, you might have to start watering.

At this time of year, the focus should be on protecting your lawn. The sun can cause significant damage, so maintaining healthy grass is crucial. Here are some simple yet effective tips:

1. Mow Regularly: Frequent mowing with sharp blades reduces stress on your lawn. Consider using a robotic mower that can handle daily mowing, allowing you to relax and enjoy your garden.
2. Use Organic Fertilisers: Opt for organic options like True Grass to avoid scorching and promote healthy growth.
3. Water Wisely: If watering is necessary, do it at night so the plants can absorb the moisture more effectively.
4. Enjoy Your Lawn: If you’re not enjoying your lawn by now, it might be time to rethink your approach for next year.

Remember, during extreme weather, simplicity is key. Overworking your lawn can lead to more harm than good. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever the weather throws your way. For further advice and products to keep your lawn in top shape, visit our website or contact our lawn care experts.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

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NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae

NemaTrident techniques to target chafer grub larvae: Chafer season has been slow to start this spring, but is now taking off with adult beetles emerging. Moist soils now make ideal conditions for egg laying, with warmer temperatures for larval hatch and feeding activity.

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

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