Grubs are in the Garden and I need to evict them before I can plant out my cucumbers. In this video I'll share with you how I use Beneficial Nematodes from Arbico Organics to do the pest control for me.
What are beneficial nematodes?
Beneficial nematodes are microscopic, non-segmented roundworms that are natural parasites of many insect pests. They're completely safe for humans, pets, plants, and beneficial insects like earthworms, ladybugs, and lacewings. Think of them as tiny, highly effective assassins for your garden!
This is the 3 Pack of Beneficial Nematodes I purchased.
https:// www.arbico-organics.com/produ…
From the Arbico Website:
“The Triple-Threat Combo includes each of three beneficial nematode species: Heterorhabditis bacteriaphora, Steinernema carpocapsae and Steinernema feltiae. Use this combination to achieve the broadest coverage of a wide variety of soil dwelling pest populations or if you are unsure of the specific pests you have.”
What kind of grubs are in my garden?
June Bug Grubs (White Grubs): These C-shaped, creamy-white larvae are the notorious root-eaters. They're the immature stage of various scarab beetles, including the common June beetle. They can wreak havoc on your vegetable roots, leading to wilting, stunted growth, and even plant loss. In Florida, June bug grubs can be active year-round, though their peak feeding times are generally late summer and fall when they're actively munching on roots. You might notice brown patches in your lawn or garden, or find it easy to pull up sections of turf, indicating severed roots. The adult June bugs themselves also feed on foliage, leaving ragged holes in leaves.
What causes grubs in the garden?
Adult beetles lay eggs in moist soil. Lack of natural predators, abundant organic matter, and consistently damp conditions create ideal grub breeding grounds.
What do grubs do to your garden?
Grubs feast on plant roots, causing wilting, stunted growth, and eventually the plant fails to thrive. Infested plants easily pull from the soil. Their tunneling also disrupts root systems.
What kills grubs?
Beneficial nematodes are highly effective. These microscopic roundworms, like Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Hb), parasitize grubs. They enter the grub, release lethal bacteria, and then reproduce, creating new grub-hunting nematodes. Chemical insecticides and milky spore (less effective for Florida grubs) are other options.
How do beneficial nematodes work?
These “entomopathogenic nematodes” actively seek out their prey in the soil. Once they find a suitable host (like a grub or flea larva), they enter the pest's body through natural openings. Inside, they release symbiotic bacteria that multiply rapidly, eliminating the pest within 24-48 hours. The nematodes then reproduce within the host, releasing a new generation of nematodes to continue the hunt.
How long does it take for beneficial nematodes to destroy grubs?
Nematodes typically destroy grubs within 24-48 hours post-infection. You'll likely see a noticeable reduction in grub damage within 2-4 weeks as the nematode population establishes and spreads.
Is there a downside to nematodes?
Yes, they are live organisms. They require moist soil, are sensitive to direct UV light and extreme temperatures (optimal 55-90°F), and have a limited shelf life (store refrigerated). You must select the correct nematode species for your target grub. They offer control, not total eradication.
What month should you apply beneficial nematodes?
In Florida, the best time for grub control is late summer to early fall (August-October). This targets young, vulnerable grubs actively feeding near the soil surface, during suitable temperatures and often good soil moisture.
Can you use too many nematodes?
No, you cannot. Nematodes are harmless to plants, humans, pets, and beneficial insects. While over-applying isn't cost-effective, it won't damage your garden. Their population naturally regulates based on grub availability.
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This video: • Grubs in Garden? Using Beneficial Nematode…
Cucumber Condo – Growing Parthenocarpic Cucumbers Under Mesh • Cucumber Condo – Growing Cucumbers Under Mesh
Thank you for watching.
The cucumber condo is an experiment to grow cucumbers and avoid garden pests! I'm controlling cucumber bugs and using mesh, like a row cover, to avoid pickle worms this year. I am making the most of my suburban lot.
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