What are nematodes

Well. I've been searching online to find out about nematodes. I'm assuming they are a way to control garden pests?

I found a link for nematodecial marigold. If nematodes control pests why would you want to deter them. I am very confused.

Abi X

 

beneficial nematodes are used to control the slug population to a tolerable level.

Is there are difference between these and other kinds-undoubtedly. The difference? Haven't the foggiest lol.

 

Thanks Lollipop, yes there seems to be lots of different sorts. I was looking for some to control leaf miners. Maybe a fools errand?

Abi X

 

Abi, the nematode you need for leaf miner is steinernema feltiae. I'm afraid I've not managed to find a supplier, but I'm sure that one of the UK suppliers of biological control solutions should be able to provide some.

 

Oh my goodness, if I could find that I think all my christmas's would come at once. Are nematodes an organic solution? Are there any downsides to nematodes? They sound a bit virus like. I don't want them to evolve into something gruesome LOL!

 

Not sure what's worse, crunching down on a leaf miner or a squiggly wormlike critter. lol.

They are parasitic and they lay eggs in the slugs ( I think) and they eat the slug from the inside out. Lovely in the insect world.

Slugs must be the entymologistic equivalent to sushini-yum.

 

Nematodes (for the purpose of horticultural pest killing) are microscopic roundworms and are harmless to humans. The main downside to the use of nematodes in the garden is the cost!

 

I'm fine with microscopic things that I can neither see nor... savour the texture of *bleh*

My worry is I fork out for the nematodes only to fine that I've got the wrong strain of leaf miner for the ******s, it seems there are lots of different types.

 

Aww JWK but I'm at my wits end with it. I grew it all in planters under poly tunnels and the blighters still got me. Even the salad I grew indoors got blighted.