Slug Nematodes - 100 Sq.M

What are Slug Nematodes?

Slug Nematodes are a natural biological slug control which helps reduce slug damage in gardens, borders, vegetable patches and allotments. They are environmentally friendly and safe for children, pets, wildlife and beneficial garden life when used as directed.

The sachets contain infective juveniles of Phasmarhabditis californica, a nematode species which actively seeks and kills slugs. They are particularly effective against common small to medium sized slugs, including those feeding below the soil surface before damage becomes obvious.

Using Slug Nematodes early in the season can help suppress developing slug populations before young plants and seedlings come under heavy attack. This makes them a useful part of an ongoing natural slug control approach.

Each application delivers around 300,000 nematodes per square metre of soil, giving approximately six weeks of protection under suitable conditions.

How do Slug Nematodes work?

Once applied to moist soil, the nematodes move through the soil in search of slugs. They enter the pest body through natural openings and, once inside, stop the slug feeding. The slug usually dies within a few days after infection, depending on environmental conditions and how much exposure it has had to the nematodes.

The infected slug then becomes a food source for the reproducing nematodes. As they multiply, several generations can develop and disperse through the soil in search of further prey. This gives Slug Nematodes a long-lasting effect and helps support natural control in the treated area.

Slug Nematodes are a living, perishable product and should be stored in the fridge on arrival. Always use them before the expiry date shown on the pack.

For protection throughout the growing season consider ordering a Slug Nematode Programme where we automatically send a pack every 6 weeks.

When to apply Slug Nematodes outdoors:

Slug Nematodes can be used whenever the soil temperature is 5ºC (40ºF) or above, making them a flexible choice across much of the growing season.

TIP: The nematodes are naturally present in soils, but applying a boosted number helps improve natural control. Even if air temperatures dip after treatment, the soil often holds enough warmth to keep them active.

Slugs breed over long periods of the year, with peak egg laying often taking place in spring and autumn. Reapplying Slug Nematodes every six weeks is a good way to maintain steady protection where slug pressure is ongoing.

TIP: Potato crops are often most vulnerable later in the season, so treatment can be timed for around 6-7 weeks before harvest, when tubers are more likely to be attacked.

What if I want to use Slug Nematodes in my greenhouse?

If you want to apply nematodes in a greenhouse when the outdoor soil temperature is <5ºC (40ºF), please see our underglass/indoor usage category - all nematodes featured in this section are sent 365 days a year.

Which pack size do I need?

Slug Nematodes are available in two pack sizes, suitable for smaller gardens up to 40 sq.m (50 sq.yds) and larger gardens or allotments up to 100 sq.m (125 sq.yds).

To calculate the area to be treated, measure the width and length of the space and multiply them together, for example 4m x 10m = 40 sq.m or 5m x 8m = 40 sq.m.

Slug Nematodes Pack Instructions

Read more about Slug Nematodes and how to apply them by downloading the Slug Nematodes Pack Instructions in PDF format (opens a new tab).

Download the Slug Nematodes Pack Instructions.

Why choose Slug Nematodes?

Slug Nematodes actively hunt for their target, stop slugs feeding within a few days and continue working through reproduction in infected slugs. They are easy to apply using standard watering or spraying equipment, leave no harmful residues, have no known resistance issues, can be used whenever soil temperatures are at or above 5°C, have no re-entry interval and are safe for the environment, beneficial organisms and applicators.

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