Nematodes in
PEST CONTROL WITH NEMATODES IN PUBLIC SPACES
Public green spaces and trees ensure well-being and a good climate. It is therefore all the more important that these areas are healthy and protected from pests. The oak processionary moth in particular poses a threat to both plants and people in public spaces. Our nematode product Tp-Nema® effectively controls the caterpillars of the oak processionary moth in a completely biological way.
CONTROL OAK PROCESSIONARY MOTH WITH NEMATODES
The caterpillars of the oak processionary moth, Thaumetopoea processionea, pose a health hazard because their stinging hairs can cause skin irritation and severe allergic reactions in humans. They must therefore be regularly controlled in public areas. This must be done before the stinging hairs form, i.e. before the third larval stage. Nematodes are an environmentally friendly alternative to established control methods, as they only affect the caterpillar fauna for a few hours.
NEMATODES AGAINST OP CATERPILLARS
Our product Tp-Nema® contains nematodes of the species Steinernema feltiae and a moisturizing gel, which is also used in food products. The gel causes the nematodes to survive on the caterpillars for up to three hours and penetrate them. Tp-Nema® can be applied as soon as the caterpillars have hatched. The trees will still have small leaves at that time. Spraying is possible up to and including the third larval stage, i.e. until approximately the end of May. To achieve high efficacy rates, the treatment should be repeated within two weeks.
APPLICATION OF TP-NEMA®
The caterpillars must be active in the tree and hit as full as possible. Therefore, and because of the risk of desiccation, the nematodes must be applied in the evening and at night between 20:00 and 6:00. This period may vary depending on the weather. The application is carried out with the so-called spray gun. Before the first application, it must be checked whether all openings are large enough and the nematodes come out of the nozzles undamaged. The amount of water required is about 10 liters per tree.
ADVANTAGES OF TP-NEMA®
- 100% biological
- Harmless to humans and animals
- Can be applied near water bodies
- The needled area does not have to be closed off
- Nematodes directly from the manufacturer
TP-NEMA® IN ACTION
Forester Frederic Offenberg has been using nematodes against the oak processionary moth for several years. In this video he reports on his experiences.