African Black Beetle
African Black Beetle
$66.00 – $275.00
African Black Beetle treatment actively seeks out and kills the larvae of African Black Beetle and Black-headed Cockchafer that live in the soil and cause damage to the grass root system as well as that of plants. It is suitable for residential lawns and gardens through to commercial applications to sports fields, golf courses and parks. It is used as both a preventative and curative treatment. Scarab grubs are best treated when they are visible and active.
This treatment is the standard dose that will control African Black Beetle and Black-headed pasture cockchafer. Common to VIC, SA, WA and QLD
A higher dose is required for more persistent lawn grubs such as Argentine Scarab and Red-headed Cockchafer. This is provided in our Argentine Scarab Treatment, which should be used if in doubt as to actual the lawn grub present.
Contains: Heterorhabditis zealandica as infective juveniles.
Please read the coverage details within the coverage section below to make sure that the product size is suitable.
African Black Beetle Beneficial Nematodes (Heterorhabditis zealandica) are natural predators of these most common destructive scarab beetle larvae. They have been shown to be the most effective solution for the control of the most damaging scarab larvae. Easily applied, the microscopic nematodes actively seek out and kill the larvae before they do damage, then breed within the dead larvae, and this new generation will emerge to continue the control process.
These natural predators won’t harm people, pets, plants or beneficial insects or organisms.
African Black Beetle have a one year lifecycle. The adults over-winter and will lay eggs from August to November. These eggs hatch and larvae emerge to feed on roots of grass and plants and are present from October through to March depending on the location. Whilst the adults can also have an impact on foliage, it is the larvae that causes the most damage to the root system, damage which becomes more prevalent from December onwards as the larvae are larger and eating more.
The grubs feed on the roots and rhizomes of the grass, leading to a reduced ability of the grass to take up nutrients and water from the soil. Therefore grass wilts and dies quickly in times of slight water or heat stress. If the problem is not addressed quickly, the larvae will destroy the turf. Large irregular patches, regardless of heat and water conditions, is usually the first sign of damage. Birds are also an indicator when they dig up the lawn in search of the grubs.
African Black Beetle spread through flying adults, but can also be brought onto location through larvae contaminated soil or in new turf and plants.
Chemical controls will struggle against the larger more damaging larvae which have built up a larger fatty barrier that protects them. These later stage larvae are easier for the nematodes to control as their body openings are also larger and easier to invade.
Larvae will build up resistance to chemical control methods, and these chemicals can also negatively impact on other beneficial organisms in the soil and also the grass and plant growth. Larvae cannot develop resistance to Beneficial Nematodes.
When applied correctly, one application can control an entire generation of lawn grub. This means only one annual application is required. Preventative or timely treatments are best applied November to December.
Best results are obtained when the larvae are present and active, or when damage is noticed. Once nematodes are applied, they will infect and stop the larvae feeding within 24-48 hours, and allow the turf and plants to start to recover.
For smaller areas or if using for an existing heavy infestation, two applications can be applied approximately 10 days apart.
Soil temperature should be above 15C at the time of application for the Beneficial Nematodes to be active.
Apply by watering can, or suitable hose end sprayer They can also be applied with pump sprayer or knap sack after removing any fine filters (< 0.5 mm).
While best used fresh, you can store any unused product properly sealed for up to 3 weeks, however it is best to aim to apply the product within 7 days of arrival for optimal results
DO NOT REFRIGERATE THIS PRODUCT.
Additional information
| Size | 25 Million (Small), 50 Million (Large), 100 Million (Double Pack), Bowling Pack |
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Information
Contains: Heterorhabditis zealandica as infective juveniles.
Storage.
Ideally, the product should be used when fresh, however with care, this product may be stored flat and properly sealed at room temperature for up to three weeks. The product must not be refrigerated.
How are Beneficial Nematodes applied?
Beneficial Nematodes are applied like any conventional spray application via a back-pack sprayer, boom spray, watering can or venturi hose end sprayer. Just remove any fine filters (less than 0.5mm). There is no need for any protective equipment as required for chemical applications.
Whilst the application of Beneficial Nematodes is easy, the correct handling of the product and timing of the application is critical to its success. Please read and follow the shipping instructions carefully.
How often will I need to apply Beneficial Nematodes?
Properly applied, one single application will control an entire generation of African Black Beetle and Black Headed Cockchafer lawn grub. This means only one annual application is required.
When should Beneficial Nematodes be applied?
Soil temperatures need to be above 15C at the time of application for the beneficial nematodes to be active.
Scarab curl grubs are best treated when the larvae are visible and active, or when damage begins to be noticed.
Adult beetles can fly in and lay eggs, and as a result treatment on one year may not fully protect for subsequent years. If you have a history of infestations or notice large numbers of adult beetles around, then a preventative treatment may be considered in the coming season.
Will Beneficial Nematodes damage beneficial soil organisms?
Definitely not! Beneficial Nematodes are naturally occurring organisms that are mass reared. They will not affect earthworms, microbes or any other beneficial organisms.
Application
Handling Instructions:
- The product is best used on arrival, however with care, this product may be stored for a limited period.
- The nematodes come in a cellulose powder solution and in a dehydrated and hibernated state.
- The product may be stored at a lower constant room temperature out of sunlight for up to three weeks. The product MUST NOT BE REFRIGERATED.
Application Instructions:
- Only apply Beneficial Nematodes at dusk. Do NOT apply outside at other times, even if overcast! Application within a UV filtered environment during daylight hours is ok.
- Ensure that the soil temperature exceeds 15o
- Ensure that the area to be treated has been irrigated and that the soil is moist.
- Allow 20-30 minutes re-hydration before applying nematodes.
- Spray the area as evenly as possible. In some cases, greater evenness may be achieved by spraying in a cross-hatch pattern, ensuring that the suspension is agitated or stirred at 5 minute intervals, as the nematodes will settle to the bottom of the vessel.
- Irrigate well immediately after treatment, and maintain moist soil conditions for the next 7 to 10 days.
Application Rate:
Apply at a rate of 50 million nematodes per 200 m2.
As a preventative, apply as part of a structured periodic application, or in advance of historical seasonal infestations. Apply at a rate of 50 million nematodes per 200 m2.
Apply as evenly as possible with enough water during or after application to maintain a moist environment in the top layers of the soil or growing medium for at least 7 days.
Application Methods:
Watering Can
Nematodes are easily applied with a watering can.
- Fill a watering can with plain water, and apply to the area to be treated to determine either what percentage of that area it will cover, or measure how many square metres. As an example – if the full watering can covers 1/5 of the area to be treated, you will need 5 full cans for total coverage. If it covers 25m2 out of an area of 125m2, you will need 5 full watering cans.
- Using tepid water, prepare for a stock solution easily measurable into the number of watering cans required to assist with even application. For the best ratio we suggest approximately 500ml per standard 9 litre watering can. For the example above, 500ml x 5 cans = 2.5 litres of water required. A used ice cream container is an easy option for the stock solution, or a bucket for larger areas. Add the nematodes to be used to the stock water and gently mix.
- Allow 20-30 minutes for the nematodes to re-hydrate.
- Agitate the nematode stock solution to re-suspend the nematodes, and add the appropriate proportion of the stock to the watering can. In the above example, this would be 1/5 of the stock, or 500ml. Fill up the can with tap water.
- Apply evenly to the treatment area, agitate occasionally to ensure nematodes have not sunk to the bottom of the can to ensure even dispersion.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all solution is used, and the total treatment area has been covered.
- Ensure all solution is used within one hour of initial stock mixing.
- Some carrier cellulose may not fully dissolve and can block watering can holes, so monitor and clear holes as necessary. If the flow from the can is too strong, taping up some of the holes can assist with control.
- Once all the solution is used, for best results again lightly irrigate the area that has been treated (a hose is ok) to assist in washing the nematodes into the media.
Hose End Sprayer (Venturi)
Nematodes can be applied with a suitable venturi sprayer with a click on hose fitting. This can be easier for larger areas. A suitable sprayer will have an aperture hole that enters the spray head no smaller than 2.5mm
- Ensure that all components of the sprayer are properly connected, and pre-irrigate the treatment area with water only in the sprayer to determine the flow rate and approximate coverage timing. Ensure all the area to be treated has been pre-watered.
- As a general guide, a typical sprayer with a 1 litre reservoir will cover 100m2
- Using tepid water, prepare a stock solution easily measurable into the number of full sprayer bottles that will be required. For a 1 litre sprayer we suggest no more than 25 million nematodes to 1 litre of water or the mixture will become too thick.
Apply in across hatch pattern by going over the treatment area twice in two different directions.
- Continue to spray evenly until all of the product has been used. Agitate by shaking the sprayer regularly to avoid the nematodes settling to the bottom of the reservoir and assist with even application
Pump Sprayer
Nematodes can be applied with a pump up style sprayer using low pressure.
- Pre-irrigate the area to be treated well prior to nematode application
- Ensure that all filters have been removed.
- Add the required nematodes for the intended treatment area to be covered to the sprayer container, and fill with required level of water
- Allow to stand for 20-30 minutes for the nematodes to re-hydrate
- Continue to spray evenly until all the product has been used. Make sure that you shake or otherwise agitate the solution every couple of minutes to aerate the solution and stop the nematodes settling to the bottom.
- Lightly irrigate with clear water within 30 minutes of applying to avoid nematodes drying out on the surface of the media or the foliage.
FAQ
WHAT IS THE AVAILABILITY?
African Black Beetle Treatment is readily available from September through to April, although quantities may be limited during these fringe months. During periods of high demand, slight delays in product availability may be experienced.
CAN THE PRODUCT BE STORED?
Whilst the product is best used fresh, it may be stored at a lower constant room temperature out of sunlight for up to three weeks. This nematode MUST NOT BE REFRIGERATED.
ARE THERE ANY APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS?
- Only apply Beneficial Nematodes at dusk outdoors. Do NOT apply at other times, even if it is overcast, as they cannot tolerate high UV light ie direct sun. If applying within a UV protected greenhouse, this restriction does not apply.
- Do not apply when the ambient air temperature exceeds 32°C, or the soil temperature exceeds 25°C or is below 15°C as the nematodes will become stressed or will be inactive.
- Avoid high or drying winds as this will dehydrate the nematodes.
- Ensure treated area is irrigated both before and after application as the nematodes require moisture for movement and need to be washed off into the soil where the pest is.
- Apply your nematodes as evenly as possible as they don’t travel far.
- Maintain moist soil conditions for not less than two weeks after treatment (to ensure a favourable environment for the second generation).
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WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF USING BENEFICIAL NEMATODES OVER TRADITIONAL INSECTICIDES?
- Safe for the environment & the family
- Seek out prey
- Combat’s chemical resistance
- These natural predators won’t harm people, pets, plants or beneficial insects
- Easy to apply
- Non – polluting
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLANT PARASITIC NEMATODES AND BENEFICIAL NEMATODES (ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODES , OR EN’s)?
Plant Parasitic Nematodes have a stylet or spear at their head end, rather like a hypodermic syringe, which is used to pierce plant cells and then suck out fluids from within the cells.
The Beneficial Nematodes have no such stylet, and are about as similar to plant parasitic nematodes as human beings are to goldfish.
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IS THE PRODUCT SAFE TO OTHER ORGANISMS?
Definitely! Beneficial Nematodes are naturally occurring organisms that are mass reared.
They will not affect earthworms, microbes or any other beneficial organisms.
They are “totally safe”. The APVMA has exempted Entomopathogenic Nematodes from registration in Australia. The Beneficial Nematodes are supplied in a cellulose-based carrier.
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ARE BENEFICIAL NEMATODES COMPATABLE WITH OTHER PRODUCTS I USE?
Beneficial Nematodes are resistant to most chemicals as they are protected as infective juveniles by a sheath.
Even chemicals that have shown an effect have only had a transient effect if placed in contact with for a short period of time. pH will have no affect and Electrical Conductivity (EC) is not an issue with the infective juveniles.
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WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE BENEFICIAL NEMATODES IF THE WATER SOURCE AVAILABLE IS TOO COLD OR NIGHTS HAVE BEEN GETTING COLD, OR THE DAYS TOO HOT?
Soil temperatures need to be above 15C at the time of application for the beneficial nematodes to be active.
Below this temperature the nematodes will be inactive but will resume activity once temperatures have risen. They will only be permanently harmed if refrigerated.
At too high a temperature, the nematodes will dry out and can perish.
Consider that soil media temperatures will probably be higher than air temperatures in most cases.
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HOW ARE THEY APPLIED ?
Beneficial Nematodes are supplied in a cellulose-based carrier and can be applied with any equipment traditionally used for spray applications. Always remove filters finer than 0.5mm (500mm). They can be applied with a watering can, pump sprayers, trigger sprayers or simple click on, hose end venturi sprayers.
Stir every 5 minutes where agitation doesn’t exist as they will settle.
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HOW MUCH WATER SHOULD I APPLY WITH?
Beneficial Nematodes move around in a film of moisture. Applying with more water is better but consider that you need to deliver the nematodes near the surface for some products.
The other important point is to apply the correct amount of nematodes as evenly as possible over the given area with enough water to achieve permeation and not excessive run off.
Beneficial Nematodes will work best in moist soil, bare ground, and in areas with minimal vegetation.
They are reported to work great in kennels with cement floors. The ground must be kept wet so a quick daily spraying would be beneficial.
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HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO APPLY BENEFICIAL NEMATODES?
Scarab curl grubs are best treated when the larvae are visible and active, or when damage begins to be noticed.
Adult beetles can fly in lay eggs, and as a result treatment on one year may not fully protect for subsequent years. If you have a history of infestations or notice larger numbers of adult beetles, then a preventative treatment may be considered.
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I HAVE APPLIED THE NEMATODES, BUT THE GRUB LARVAE ARE STILL PRESENT?
The Beneficial Nematodes attack the curl grub larvae stage within the soil to stop the life cycle. You can expect control of approximately 90-95% of larvae, which exceeds the results of chemical alternatives. The lower number of remaining grubs should be below the threshold at which damage is caused.
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CAN I GET TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ?
You sure can!
Please call 02 6284 3844, or send us an email via the Contact Us function
Coverage m2
Small Pack – $66.00 – Covers 100m2
Large Pack – $99.00 – Covers 200m2
Double Pack – $165.00 – Covers 400m2
Bowling Pack – $250.00 – Covers 1500m2
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