Natural solution for garden pests: Use beneficial nematodes

Caring for a garden requires a lot of effort and dedication, as well as a quick response to the appearance of pests such as grubs and fungus gnats. How can you get rid of them? Try an increasingly popular, safe, and fully natural method.

Fungus gnats are small flies from the Sciaridae family. Adult fungus gnats resemble tiny black flies and live for only a week. During this time, a female can lay up to 100 eggs in the soil, from which small larvae hatch.

These larvae pose the greatest threat as they feed on plant roots, causing significant damage. Grubs, on the other hand, are the larvae of May beetles. They live in the soil and, like fungus gnats, damage roots.

So, how can you get rid of grubs and fungus gnats? The most common method is using professional chemical agents available at any gardening store. Although effective, they have a significant drawback: they can also damage crops.

Fortunately, there is a method that eliminates the need for pesticides. It is both safe and ecological. Invest in a package of beneficial nematodes. These are usually sold as a powder or concentrate.

Before beginning treatment, water the soil thoroughly so it is moist. Prepare the mixture with microorganisms according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use the entire package at once. It is advisable to do this on a warm evening when the soil is still warm and the sun's rays are no longer as strong.

Once the preparation is applied, the nematodes will enter the bodies of the fungus gnats and grubs through spiracles, the openings in their bodies. Within 1-3 days, they will start producing symbiotic microorganisms, killing the pests. This simple and safe method will help you eliminate these unwelcome garden guests.