Helpdesk/FAQs

Just Green Help Desk: 01621 785088 or sales@just-green.com

Frequently Asked Questions on the Use of Biological Pest Control Products (Nematodes)  

Q. What is a NEMATODE? 

A. A NEMATODE is a live microscopic worm which preys on garden pests and kills them.  Nematodes occur naturally in nature.  The introduction of them as part of a biological pest control programme can vastly increase their naturally occurring population, hence increasing the chances of defeating tiresome garden pests.

Q. What is BIOLOGICAL PEST CONTROL?

 A. BIOLOGICAL CONTROL of pests in agriculture and domestic gardens is a method of controlling pests(including slugs, insects, mites and plant diseases) that relies on natural predators, parasites or other natural mechanisms eg the introduction of ladybirds to prey on aphid pests.  It does not involve the use of any chemicals and is commonly employed by those wishing to use organic gardening methods.

Q. How can LIVE NEMATODES be delivered to me in good condition?

 A. Just Green is the leading supplier of an extensive range of nematode products to UK gardeners and can draw on over a decade of experience and expertise when supplying customers with these products.  Our nematodes are supplied as a live product in a powder carrier (like flour) in a small sealed container which will fit through most letter boxes.  Ideally nematodes will reach our customers the day after first class posting.  With this in mind we do not dispatch live products on a Friday.  Nematodes should always be used as soon as possible after receipt.

Q. How long will LIVE NEMATODES last?

 A. Biological pest control products such as LIVE NEMATODES are generally temperature sensitive.  If temperatures are too cold or hot they can die.  Ideally they should always be used as soon as possible after receipt, but if this is not possible nematodes should be stored in a fridge (usually for a maximum of two weeks).  Full storage guidelines are contained with the product information when despatched.

Q. I don’t like the idea of storing NEMATODES in my fridge, can they escape?

 A. NEMATODES are supplied in a small sealed container and cannot escape!  All you can see is a powdery/flour like substance which is the carrier for the microscopic worms. The worms themselves are invisible to the human eye and completely harmless to humans.

Q. How should I apply the NEMATODES?

 A. Simply mix up the nematodes in a watering can or hose end feeder (dilution rates are clearly stated on packaging) and drench the affected area.  In spells of particularly dry weather, it is good to keep the area damp, if possible.    

Q. When should I apply NEMATODES?

 A. Nematodes are best applied in dull conditions or in the evening, when the sun is setting, to avoid drying out.  Soil temperatures should be a minimum of 5 degrees centigrade.

Q. Are NEMATODES harmful to my pets/children/wildlife?

 A. No!  Nematodes are completely safe to use in gardens which are accessible to children and pets.  They are harmless to wildlife and can be safely used on edible crops in vegetable gardens.  Remember, they occur naturally, you are just adding to the population.

Q. How do I know which size pack of NEMATODES to order?

 A. As Nematodes are microscopic, there are several million in every pack.  Our product description clearly states the area each pack will treat or cover in square meters (starting at 12sq. m).

Q.  How do your NEMATODE PROGRAMMES work?

 A. For heavy infestations of pests we recommend repeat NEMATODE treatments at regular intervals.  Our multiple delivery programmes provide cost effective deliveries of nematode packs on two or more occasions.  We take advance orders of these programmes and will despatch at the optimum time for successful application.

 Q. Can I use other forms of pest control at the same time as using NEMATODES?

 A. You should certainly avoid using any form of chemical pest control immediately prior to and whilst using these products.  Chemicals may kill NEMATODES making them ineffective.  If a pest population needs knocking back because the conditions are not suitable for biological control or the pest population is too high, use a fatty acid based product which leaves no toxic residues.