Nematodes are fantastic little helpers in the fight against pests, but they do have a weakness: sunlight. These microscopic worms are very sensitive to UV radiation and dehydration. Exposure to direct sunlight can quickly kill them, reducing their effectiveness. But does this mean you can't use them in direct sunlight at all? Fortunately, not! There are several ways to successfully apply nematodes without them being affected by the sun.
Why can't nematodes tolerate the sun?
Nematodes are living organisms that naturally inhabit soil, where it is moist and sheltered. When exposed to direct sunlight, they quickly dehydrate and die. This is because their bodies are largely made up of water and they lack a protective outer layer to prevent dehydration. Furthermore, UV radiation is harmful to their cells and can drastically reduce their chances of survival.
To ensure nematodes can do their work, it's essential to introduce them to an environment that resembles their natural habitat. This means sufficient moisture, shade, and soft substrate where they can move quickly in search of their prey.
How do you apply nematodes without sunlight problems?
Fortunately, there are ways to successfully deploy nematodes, even when the sun is shining:
- Apply in the early morning or late evening. The best time to release nematodes is when the sun is less intense. This way, they survive longer and have more time to spread through the soil.
- Always apply to moist soil. A moist substrate protects nematodes from drying out and helps them quickly penetrate the soil. Therefore, water before and after application. By moistening the soil a few hours beforehand, you ensure that the water penetrates deeper into the soil.
- Taking advantage of cloudy days: If it's a cloudy day, you can safely apply nematodes during the day. The absence of direct sunlight makes conditions more favorable.
- Creating ground cover or shade. Are you working in a continuously sunny area? You can create temporary shade with a cloth or mulch, for example, to give the nematodes a better chance of survival.
Can you use nematodes in summer?
Yes, absolutely! Nematodes are perfectly suitable for use in the summer, as long as you follow the correct application techniques. Many pests, such as grubs and vine weevils , are particularly active during the warmer months. This is therefore the ideal time to use nematodes to prevent damage to your plants.
A common misconception is that high temperatures are inherently harmful to nematodes. This isn't entirely true. As long as the soil is sufficiently moist and they can quickly crawl away, they can survive perfectly well. It's important to avoid extremely hot, dry spells and to provide extra water during prolonged periods of heat.
Want to know more about nematodes? Read our blog !
Final tips for success
Nematodes and sunlight don't mix well, but with the right approach, you can still use them effectively. By planning carefully and ensuring the soil stays moist and sheltered, you give these beneficial creatures the best chance to control pests. This way, you keep your plants healthy without chemical pesticides!
