Asparagus Beetle Killer Nematodes

What are Asparagus Beetles? 

The Asparagus Beetle (Crioceris asparagi) is a serious pest of Asparagus plants. The larval stages and the adult beetles both feed on the plants, damaging the stems and foliage. The larvae are greyish-black in colour. There are two generations of Asparagus Beetle each year. The adult beetles will overwinter as they find plant debris to hide in.

What are Asparagus Beetle Killer Nematodes and how can they help?

Our Asparagus Beetle Killer contains the nematode; Steinernema carpocapsae, which is the most effective nematode in above-ground nematode treatments. The carpocapsae has proven to be effective in killing the Asparagus Beetle when it is at its larval stage. The nematodes kill the larvae while it is feeding on the foliage of the Asparagus plants.

When should I apply my nematodes?

It is vital to get the timing right when applying nematodes. Please ensure that Asparagus Beetle larvae are present when applying the nematodes directly onto the infested plants. The larvae appear on Asparagus plants from May to June, with a second generation arriving from August to September. 

How many nematodes do I need?

The Asparagus Beetle Killer Nematodes are supplied as:

1 x 25 Million nematodes to treat up to 35m² of Asparagus plants 

or

2 x 25 million nematodes to treat up to 70m² of Asparagus plants.

What conditions do the nematodes require?

Choose a humid or wet day to apply your Asparagus 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 my 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 or our 8/15 Litre Pump Action Sprayers 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 Asparagus plants and ensure plenty of the spray solution is applied and directed where possible directly onto the Asparagus Beetle larvae.

For severe infestations, repeat the process 5 days after first treatment.

Full instructions are provided on delivery.

Can I store 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.

Asparagus Beetle Killer nematodes are harmless to humans, and safe to apply to edible plants.