Most farmers are fully aware of the need to take timely action when pests start affecting their crops. In many cases, sprays are scheduled at first sight of damage, or even from planting onwards, in anticipation of pest pressure building up.

In recent years, farmers have seen increasing difficulty controlling potato tuber moth (PTM), tuta absoluta (TA), false codling moth (FCM), macadamia nut borer (MNB), and fall armyworm (FAW).

A good start is always monitoring traps with pheromone lures to detect the first presence of a pest. One question many growers ask is why a pest, once established in a crop, returns faster and more severely in the following season.

One of the most overlooked parts of the pest cycle is the ground phase. Many of the pests listed above pupate in the soil. The pupae are protected in a cocoon and are not affected by pesticides.

Research shows that up to 70% of pest reinfestations originate from the soil.

This makes a strong case for controlling the problem at ground level. A valuable option at planting is a drench treatment of Larvanem, a beneficial entomopathogenic nematode.

Why beneficial nematodes matter

While plant parasitic nematodes are a common soil pest affecting crops, beneficial entomopathogenic nematodes are becoming an increasingly useful part of integrated pest management programs. They can be used alongside other beneficial organisms and also within conventional crop protection programs.

Beneficial nematodes have been studied since the 19th century and were first used in agriculture from the 1980s. They are microscopic roundworms, less than a millimetre long, and obligate parasites of insects.

They are specific in action and do not infest plants or other types of animals. As naturally soil-borne organisms, they now also play a role in controlling certain foliar pests.

How does it work?

After application, the nematodes move through the soil in search of prey. Once they find a host insect, they enter through natural body openings. They then release pathogenic bacteria that they carry with them.

This process kills and liquefies the insect from the inside. The nematodes feed on the digested tissues, reproduce in large numbers, and then emerge to search for a new host.

The pest insect stops feeding soon after infestation and dies within a few days.

Application guidance

Larvanem is also suitable for wireworm, cutworm, and grubs. It should ideally be applied as a drench using the irrigation system, such as pivot, rotating sprinklers, drip irrigation, or by spraying directly onto the soil.

A follow-up treatment later in the season can help reduce further pest build-up. Always check compatibility within your crop protection program before application.