Vine Weevil Control

Nematodes are a natural and effective biological solution for managing vine weevil populations in UK nurseries. Vine weevil is a persistent pest capable of causing significant damage to a wide range of ornamental plants, particularly to the roots, leading to weakened growth or even loss.

The adult weevils cause noticeable damage to the leaves by eating irregular notches along the edges. There are few, if any, licensed chemical treatments available to growers, prompting an increase in environmentally friendly methods such as nematode application.

Mode of Action

Nematodes enter the pest and release symbiotic bacteria into the pest's body cavity. These bacteria convert the host tissue into a food source, on which nematodes feed, develop, and reproduce inside the host. This kills the pest within a few hours to days after infection.

Application

  • Nematodes can be applied using a watering can, an airblast sprayer, through a sprinkler system, with a backpack sprayer, or a vehicle-mounted spray unit
  • To avoid blockage, all filters should be removed, especially if finer than 0.3 mm (50 mesh)
  • Use a maximum pressure of 20 bar/290 psi (on nozzle)
  • The spray nozzle opening should be at least 0.5 mm (500 microns – 35 mesh) - preferably high flow rate cone nozzle types
  • Continuous mixing should take place to prevent nematodes sinking to the bottom of the spray tank
  • Avoid sprayers equipped with centrifugal or piston pumps
  • Water tank temperature must not exceed 25°C/77°F and pH must be between 4 and 8
  • Distribute the spraying solution evenly over the soil/medium surface
  • Pressure-compensated irrigation systems are recommended. If not available, spray or drench applications are recommended. For injection through Dosatron/Venturi systems, please contact your local Koppert representative for specific advice
  • Spray the solution as soon as it is prepared and within a short timeframe. Do not store mixed suspensions

Environmental Conditions (Click on highlighted fields for further information)

  • Entonem - Steinernema feltiae is active between 10-31°C but performs best at temperatures between 14-26°C
  • Soil or air temperature below 5°C and above 35°C can be lethal
  • Larvanem - Heterorhabditis bacteriophora is active between 16-35°C but performs best at temperatures between 19-33°C
  • Soil temperature below 5°C and above 35°C can be lethal

 

Timing - Timing and frequency depend on the pest species and the crop environment (relative humidity, soil moisture and temperature).

Entonem – target larval stage, apply during March and April, and November through December.

Larvanem – target larval stage, apply from mid-April to end May, and August through to October.

Larvanem – target pupa stage, apply mid-April to mid-June

 

Application Rates

Apply at a rate of 500 million per 1000m2, or, 0.5 million nematodes per litre of liquid per m2.

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