Spread the seed evenly: Even distribution of the seed is key to achieving uniform growth and avoiding patchy areas. Use a handheld spreader or a mechanical seeder to ensure an even dispersal of the seed over the affected areas. Follow the recommended seeding rate provided by the seed manufacturer for optimal results. Be patient and monitor progress: Reseeding and overseeding take time, and results may not be immediate. Exercise patience and closely monitor the progress of the newly seeded areas. Keep an eye out for signs of germination, such as the appearance of tiny grass blades. Adjust your watering and maintenance practices as needed to promote healthy growth. Furthermore, we will dive into treatment options, offering step-by-step instructions on using nematodes and insecticides to restore your lawn to its former glory. Mix the paste with a small amount of water to make a slurry, before adding the rest of the water. Stir the solution once again before applying it.

Let’s explore some chemical measures that can aid in controlling these persistent pests and restoring the health of your turf. Nematodes Environmentally friendly and safe for children, pets and wildlife. No need to exclude children and pets from treated areas. We reported this issue to the house-builders and initially I asked them that I wanted them to replace the lawn with new turf, but to be honest I am not sure whether this will help after reading this article & Q&A’s. The weather has now turned cold so I do not think the nematodes will be the right immediate treatment (and perhaps not successful anyway due to the sheer amount of crane flies we had over September). Remember, insecticides should be used as a last resort when other methods have proven insufficient. Restoring The Lawn Water and nurture newly seeded areas: Proper watering is essential for the success of your lawn’s restoration. Keep the newly seeded areas consistently moist by watering lightly but frequently. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Additionally, provide adequate nutrients through regular fertilization to support the growth of new grass.

How do Leatherjacket Killer Nematodes work?

Slugs. The grandly named Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita is another weapon in the arsenal against slugs. The nematodes can modify the slug's behaviour so that it remains below the ground surface before death. After eating the cadaver, the nematodes produce another generation, which move off through the soil in search of new slug hosts. Slug nematodes are killed off in soil after 6 weeks by a predatory fungus, so repeated applications don't work : and unfortunately, they don't live long in the soil, which is why you need to be very time accurate in applying- just when shoots are emerging or potato tubers forming for example. Taking care to keep the feeder in an upright position apply evenly to the whole of the area for 8 minutes using a side-to-side motion to keep the nematodes well mixed. During this time most of the nematodes will have been applied.

Several species and combinations of species can be available including, Steinernema kraussei, S. feltiae, Heterorhabditis megidis and H. bacteriophora. Steinernema species can remain active at soil temperatures down to 5ºC (41ºF) whilst Heterorhabditis require temperatures above 12ºC (54ºF). Caterpillars including Box tree caterpillar, Cabbage caterpillars, Codling moth, Cutwormsand Plum moth Adult Crane Flies: One tell-tale sign is the presence of large numbers of adult crane flies hovering above your turf during their mating season.Soil temperatures should be above 10℃ for the nematodes to be active, if applying in the spring. How Do I Apply The Nematodes?