Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, sold as NemaSeek beneficial nematodes, are microscopic soil-dwelling roundworms that actively seek and kill harmful soil pests. These non-toxic biological control agents target insects in their larval and pupal stages, making them highly effective against grubs, beetle larvae, root weevils, ticks, and more. Ideal for lawns, gardens, orchards, nurseries, and greenhouses, these nematodes provide safe, chemical-free protection without harming people, pets, pollinators, or beneficial insects.
How It Works
Once applied, nematodes move through the soil in search of hosts. They penetrate target insects through natural body openings or directly through the cuticle, releasing symbiotic bacteria that kills the host within 48–72 hours. Inside the host, nematodes reproduce and, once resources are depleted, emerge to seek new pests. This repeating cycle provides ongoing suppression as long as hosts are present.
Targets These Pest Species
-
White Grubs (Japanese beetles, chafers, May/June bugs)
-
Flea Beetles
-
Root Weevils (black vine, strawberry, citrus)
-
Corn Rootworms
-
Carrot Weevil
-
Colorado Potato Beetle
-
Banana Weevil
-
Iris, Vine & Tree Borers
-
Asparagus Beetle
-
Spotted Cucumber Beetle
-
Gall Midges
-
Phorid Flies
-
Ant Queens (nest disruption)
-
Sugarcane Stalk Borer
-
Sweet Potato Weevil
-
Leafminers
-
Ticks
…and more than 30 additional soil-dwelling pests
Ideal Conditions
-
Soil temperature above 42°F (6°C)
-
Moist soil before and after application
-
Apply in early morning or evening to avoid UV exposure
-
Life cycle continues as long as host insects are present
-
May enter dormancy in winter but do not typically survive harsh cold
Application Instructions
-
Mix nematodes with water and apply using: hose-end sprayer, pump sprayer, watering can, irrigation/fertigation, or syringe for hydroponic media
-
Lightly water soil before and after application to maintain moisture
-
Do not leave nematode solution in water for more than 2 hours
-
Use all contents the same day after opening
When to Apply
-
Best applied in spring and fall when grubs and larvae are active
-
Apply every 7–10 days for at least 2 applications
-
Reapply if pest pressure persists or returns the following season
Release Rates
-
5 million: Covers ~1,600 sq. ft.
-
10 million: Covers ~3,200 sq. ft.
-
50 million: Covers ~1 acre
-
250 million: Covers ~5 acres
-
500 million: Covers ~10 acres
Apply enough nematodes to cover the entire target area.
Where to Use
-
Lawns and turf
-
Vegetable and fruit crops
-
Greenhouses and nurseries
-
Orchards and vineyards
-
Grow rooms
-
Hydroponic and aquaponic systems
-
Container plants, interiorscapes, and houseplants
-
Outdoor pond edges and moist areas
Shipping & Storage
-
Ships Monday–Thursday (5M–50M by 2nd Day Air, 250M–500M by Overnight)
-
Refrigerate upon arrival (do not freeze)
-
Shelf life: Up to 14 days unopened
-
Use all contents the same day after opening
-
Not available for shipping to Hawaii; Alaska requires special shipping quote
Quick Tips
✔ Apply in early morning or evening to avoid UV exposure
✔ Water soil before and after application to keep nematodes active
✔ Reapply multiple times to catch overlapping pest life stages
✔ Monitor pest activity with scouting for optimal timing
✘ Do not mix with incompatible chemical insecticides
