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Codling Moth Killer Nematodes


What Are Codling Moths?

Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella) lay eggs that develop into larvae. These larvae will burrow into a range of fruit including; Apples, Pears, Quinces and Walnuts. The larvae and caterpillars will feed inside the fruit, making tunnels, and leave excrement within the produce.  

What Are Codling Moth Killer Nematodes & How Can They Help?

Codling Moth Killer contains the Steinernema nematodes which can be used to control the Codling Moth larvae when they are not in the fruit. The nematodes will enter the larvae via a natural opening, like the mouth, and feed on the contents of the larvae. A natural bacterium is produced by the nematodes inside the larvae, which kills it. The nematodes also reproduce inside the larvae, releasing more nematodes into the surrounding area. Once the Codling Moth larvae are killed, the nematodes die back to natural levels in the soil.

When Should I Apply The Nematodes?

Apply Codling Moth Killer Nematodes to infected trees, and their soil base, in April and mid-September to kill the Codling Moth larvae while they are on the lower branches and tree trunk. Also apply the nematodes to the base of the tree in the soil. 

How Many Nematodes Do I Need?

One pack of 25 Million Codling Moth Killer will treat up to 8 trees.

What Conditions Do The Nematodes Require?

Choose a humid or wet day to apply your Codling Moth Killer Nematodes. Nematodes are UV-sensitive and will not survive long when exposed to bright, sunny conditions. Apply the nematodes early in the morning or early in the evening in order to utilise the optimum humidity levels.

How Do I Apply The Nematodes?

1. First open and empty the contents of your 25 million sachet of nematodes into a bucket or container of 2.5 litres of water and mix thoroughly.

2. Next, fill your sprayer (hand held sprayers should suffice, with filters removed - or use our Nema Super Sprayer for optimum nematode application) with the mixed 2.5 litres of nematode concentrate and add another 5.5 litres of water so you are left with 8 litres of nematode solution.

3. Finally, spray the Codling Moth Killer solution to the lower branches and trunk of the tree (up to 1.5m from the base) and up to one square metre around the base of the tree in the soil.

Apply with thorough coverage of the lower tree trunk and drench the soil at the base of the tree, applying approximately 1 litre of solution per tree.

Use entire pack contents at once. For severe infestations, repeat the process 5 days after first treatment.

Full instructions are provided on delivery.

Can I Store The Nematodes?

You can store unopened nematode packs in a fridge but it is best to ensure you apply your nematodes as soon as possible for the best results.

Codling Moth Killer nematodes are harmless to humans, pets and wildlife, and safe to apply to edible plants

Establish Complete Control Over Codling Moths By Also Applying Our Traps

It is also recommended that you first introduce our Codling Moth Traps to assist in controlling infestations. The traps will contribute to reducing the number of adult male moths and prevent moths from breeding. The traps also provide a visual indication of infestation levels.