Sportnem-H Chafer Grub Killer

Sportnem-H Chafer Grub Killer

Sportnem H Chafer Grub Killer is a chafer grub treatment containing Heterorhabditis bacteriophora; a species of native entomopathogenic nematode (microscopic worms), which controls infestations of chafer grub larvae safely and effectively. A pro-active preventative approach to controlling chafer grubs in turf is required.

There is one application window in the pests life cycle suitable for applying a chafer grub treatment.

The application window is during the late summer/autumn, from the middle of August to the middle of October. Direct damage from the grubs and indirect damage from predators hunting for them in the following spring and summer is avoided.

The graphic below is designed to inform the user as to the life stage of the organism throughout the year.

The mid August to mid-October application window coincides with the larvae being at a young and susceptible life stage and the soil temperature being above 14ºC, which is the minimum point the nematodes are at their most active in the soil.

Once soil temperatures rise again in the following spring the larvae will have grown to a stage where effective control of any type is significantly reduced. This means that a pro-active preventative approach to controlling chafer larvae in turf areas is required.

A pro-active preventative approach to controlling chafer grubs in turf is required. By treating with Sportnem H Chafer Grub Killer within the mid August to mid October application window, direct damage from the grubs and indirect damage from predators hunting for them in the following spring and summer is avoided. 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.

Sportnem H Chafer Grub Killer must be used within 3-4 weeks of being received, keep refrigerated until used.

Each pack of Sportnem H Chafer Grub Killer treats up to 500 m².

Preparing to Apply Nematodes
		Order Order nematodes to arrive 1-2 weeks prior to forecast application period* to facilitate application in optimum circumstances. *Aim to apply nematodes 4-5 weeks after peak adult flight time.
		Store Store in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2-6°C.
		Monitor Aim to apply nematodes 4-5 weeks after peak adult flight time. For summer/autumn applications ensure that the soil temperature is > 13°C. For spring applications ensure that the soil temperature is > 8°C. Aim to apply in the morning, in the evening or on a cloudy day. Aim to apply when rain is forecast.
		Irrigate Apply 5-10 mm water the evening before treatment. Apply a further 5 mm of water 1-2 hours before treatment.
		Aerate Use a sarel roller to aerate the soil, facilitating faster movement of the nematodes through the soil profile.* * It is important that the nematodes come into contact with the soil as quickly as possible; excessive thatch will inhibit this process.
Applying Nematodes
		Equipment Remove all filters from the application equipment. Checking: Lance handle, Top hat filters at the nozzle, Filter bowls within pipes after the pump. Use a suitable nozzle i.e. flat fan nozzle with coarse droplet size. Ensure sprayer is completely clean then fill with half the required amount of clean water.
		Nematodes Place the contents of the pack into a clean bucket containing 5 litres of water. Stir well and allow to soak for 20-30 seconds. Stir again and pour the entire solution into the spray tank through its sieve. Top up until the required amount of solution is in the tank.
		Application Spray nematode solution immediately onto the prepared surface using a maximum of 12 bar pressure. Apply with a penetrant wetting agent to improve passage into the soil.
		Post Application Irrigate immediately after application using 2-5 mm water to help wash the nematodes into the soil. Ensure the area is kept moist for at least 2 weeks post application.

We do not sell this product during the period when the larvae are not susceptible to control using nematodes.

To aid the efficiency of the nematodes into the soil profile, apply with Aquazorb 45 Wetting Agent.

For further information on Sportnem H Chafer Grub Killer, please contact a member of our technical sales team on 01902 440280.