Did you have issues with squash bugs, squash vine bores, cucumber beetles or root nematodes this past spring? Taking a page from Sun Tzu’s Art of War, and attack them when they are at their weakest which would be in dormancy. The weapon to use against these destructive pests are beneficial nematodes. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic, subterranean worms that act as parasites on non-beneficial pests. Since the larva of the bad insects are in a dormant state in the soil, they are easy prey for the nematodes.
Nematodes are mixed with water and poured through a provided sieve. For garden applications it is recommended to use a clean watering can, although you can use pump-up or hose-end sprayers. Apply the nematodes on the damp ground as the sun is setting. Water the area thoroughly after application. Wells Brothers sells beneficial nematodes in two sizes. The medium size will cover a quarter of an acre and the large size will cover half an acre. As always, read and follow the label directions.
