Chafer Grub Killer - (100 sq m) Spring and Autumn Application

What are Chafer Grubs?

Chafer grubs are the soil-dwelling larvae of chafer beetles. They are creamy coloured with an orange head and are about 1.5 cm in length, they have distinctive legs and will be found in the grass roots. 

How can I control Chafer Grubs?

Chafer Grub Killer is a chafer grub treatment containing Heterorhabditis bacteriophora a species of nematodes which controls infestations of chafer beetle larvae naturally, safely, and effectively.

Use Chafer Grub Killer to deal with a chafer grub infestation, without any of the precautions associated with chemical use and the assurance that they are 100% safe for children, cats, dogs, other pets and wildlife. 

Beneficial nematodes are living organisms, so they must be used before the expiry date (which is marked on the inside of the pack and will be around 2-3 weeks) and should be stored in the fridge until it is applied.

When can I apply Chafer Grub Killer Nematodes?

Generally as long as the grubs are near the surface and the soil temperature is above 12ºC (54ºF), nematodes can still be applied.

• Autumn application - typically late August through to the end of October:

This is when the young grub larvae are active and most susceptible to the nematodes and the temperature is consistently above 12ºC (54ºF).

• Spring application - typically early April to the end of May:

If you discover a severe infestation (or have had chafer grubs in the past) then we recommed that you treat your lawn with Chafer Grubs Killer in April/May. If you treat in April/May you should treat in September AS WELL.

How do Chafer Grub Killer Nematodes work?

The nematodes work in the soil by seeking out the chafer beetle larvae and attack the pest by entering natural body openings. Once inside, they release bacteria (Photorhabdus spp.) that stops the pest from feeding, quickly killing the grub.

The nematodes then reproduce inside the dead grub and release a new generation of infective juvenile nematodes. These infective juveniles then disperse into the soil and search for further prey. If sustained this life cycle can lead to significantly reduced chafer grub populations in subsequent years.

There are a number of Chafer Grub species with varying levels of resistance to Nematodes. The 'Garden Chafer' is the most commonly found chafer grub and is very susceptible to nematodes, but there are other minor species that are more resistant.

If after your initial treatment you continue to have an infestation it is highly likely you have a more resistant strain of chafer, such as the 'Welsh Chafer' or 'Summer Chafer'. It is advised to apply at double strength and more frequently in order to try to combat these grubs however this is still not guaranteed to combat the more resistant strains.

How do I apply Chafer Grub Killer nematodes? 

Prior to applying the nematodes:

• Cut the grass short before treatment.
• Soil should be between 12°C and 30°C during application and for at least two weeks after.
• Irrigate the area to be treated prior to application in order to apply the nematodes to a moist lawn.
  
  

To avoid desiccation of the nematodes:

• Avoid direct sunlight; make applications in the evenings or in dull conditions
• Application during rain is highly desirable.
• It is very important to irrigate immediately after application, water the grass well so the nematodes are washed below the thatch layer into the soil to reach the roots where the larvae will be feeding.
• Ensure soil is moist for at least two weeks after application.

Chafer Grub Killer application instructions using a Hose-end Feeder (100 sqm Pack):

Before starting, mark out the area to be treated - this will help ensure even coverage.

1. Add half of the contents of the pack to the bowl of the feeder. 
2. Fill the bowl with water, mix thoroughly until fully dispersed and attach the hose. 
3. Set the Miracle-Gro® Feeder spray pattern to ‘flat’ and watering mode to ‘feed & water’.
4. With the feeder in an upright position, apply evenly to half of the area using a side-to-side motion. Application will take approximately 8 minutes under typical water pressure conditions.
5. Repeat the above procedure with the other half of the contents of the pack to treat the other half of the area. 
6. To make sure the nematodes are adequately watered in, treat the same area again for a further 8 minutes if treating a vegetable patch or 16 
   minutes if treating a lawn. Applications to lawns require more water to wash the nematodes through the grass thatch.

Adhering strictly to the application timings will ensure that any remaining colour in the bowl will be due to the inert carrier only and that you have performed an even application.

IMPORTANT: Make sure the lawn does not dry out after applying nematodes and keep it well watered for at least two weeks.

Please note: Pack instructions are subject the change - if you have any queries regarding application, please contact us before application. 

Which pack size do I need?

To calculate your area measure the width and length of the area to be treated and multiple them by each other e.g. 5m x 20m = 100 sq.m

Can't see an answer to your question? Please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.