Steinernema feltiae, sold as NemAttack beneficial nematodes, are naturally occurring soil-dwelling roundworms that specialize in controlling insects with a soil stage. Highly effective against fungus gnat larvae, thrips pupae, root maggots, and shore flies, these nematodes are widely used in greenhouses, nurseries, hydroponics, and houseplants. Safe for people, pets, pollinators, and beneficial insects, S. feltiae provides consistent, biological protection below the soil surface without chemicals.
How It Works
Once applied, nematodes move through soil or growing media to locate pests. They penetrate the insect body through natural openings or the cuticle and release symbiotic bacteria that kill the host within 48–72 hours. Nematodes reproduce inside the pest, and new juveniles emerge to find fresh hosts. Populations persist for 2–4 weeks as long as suitable hosts remain.
Targets These Pest Species
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Fungus Gnats (Bradysia impatiens)
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Shore Flies
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Sciarids
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Thrips (Franklinothrips spp., pupal stage)
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Root Maggots
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Onion Maggots
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Cabbage Maggots
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Fruit Flies (Drosophila)
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Crane Flies
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Beet Armyworm
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Black Cutworm
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Tobacco Cutworm
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Codling Moth
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Corn Earworm
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Raspberry Crown Borer
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Sweet Potato Weevil
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Subterranean Termites
…and other larval-stage soil pests
Ideal Conditions
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Soil temperature above 42°F (6°C)
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Soil/media kept moist before and after application
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Apply early morning or evening to avoid UV exposure
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Nematodes reproduce in hosts and remain active for up to 2 weeks in soil
Application Instructions
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Mix with water and apply using hose-end sprayer, pump sprayer, watering can, fertigation/irrigation systems, or syringe for hydroponic cubes/media
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Apply immediately after mixing; do not leave nematodes in water for more than 2 hours
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Pre-water area before application and lightly water afterward to aid soil penetration
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Apply twice, 7–10 days apart, to break pest life cycles
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Repeat in spring and fall or as pest pressure dictates
Release Rates
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5 million: ~1,600 sq. ft. (ships 2nd Day Air)
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10 million: ~3,200 sq. ft. (ships 2nd Day Air)
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50 million: ~1 acre (ships 2nd Day Air)
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250 million: ~5 acres (ships Overnight)
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500 million: ~10 acres (ships Overnight)
Apply enough to cover the entire treatment area for best results.
Where to Use
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Greenhouses and nurseries
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Indoor grow rooms
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Hydroponics and aquaponics
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Orchards and vineyards
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Vegetable and fruit crops
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Houseplants, container plants, and interiorscapes
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Ponds and moist outdoor zones
Shipping & Storage
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Ships Monday–Thursday; orders after Thursday AM ship the following Monday
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Free 2nd Day Air for 5M–50M sizes; Free Overnight for 250M–500M sizes
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$20 Overnight upgrade available for smaller sizes
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Store refrigerated in original packaging (do not freeze)
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Shelf life: 14 days unopened; use all contents same day after opening
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Not available for shipping to Hawaii; Alaska requires custom shipping quote
Quick Tips
✔ Ideal for fungus gnat and thrips pupae control in soil and media
✔ Effective in hydroponic systems when applied properly
✔ Apply early in the plant cycle for long-term suppression
✔ Use 2–3 applications per season for best results
✘ Avoid pesticide tank mixes unless confirmed nematode-safe
