beneficial nematodes

[patri-b]

:) Hi everyone! I hope you are all doing fine, especially those in southeast Texas. I have just a couple of quick questions.
:oops: I have a flea problem in the lawn due to stray cats in the neighborhood. I have read (on Howard's site and from the forum) about spraying with beneficial nematodes. My question: Is it too late in the year to treat the yard? I read somewhere about the soil temperature having to be at least 70 degrees, but not over 88 degrees? Does anyone know about this? And my second question is: Is powdered CGM better than the granular? Is it too late to apply that for the fall season? Should I aerate before or after applying it to the lawn?


Thanks yal'll!
Patri

[pakin]

DE should help with the fleas. Just sprinkle it around the infested area. Use it when it's dry.

Thought I'd just give you some info while you're waiting for the experts to answer. We're kinda busy with Rita...

Pat Akin

[goo0h]

patri-b wrote: Is powdered CGM better than the granular? Is it too late to apply that for the fall season? Should I aerate before or after applying it to the lawn?
David just recently answered a question about the timing of CGM application:

http://www.dirtdoctor.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=27168#27168

In terms of powdered or granular, I believe they are both effective. However, the powder will be more effective faster than the granular. The powder can also be horribly messy! Don't try applying it on a windy day. :wink: The granular is easier to spread in spreaders, but takes longer to break down to the point where it'll start offering protection against (weed) seed germination.

[patri-b]

Thanks for the quick response. I appreciate your help :D . I will continue to keep an eye on this thread.

I know it's not much but, my prayers are with you all who are and have been affected by these devestating storms. :cry:

Patri

[Dchall_San_Antonio]

I apply beneficial nematodes in January. My surface soil temp at 1 inch is roughly 50 degrees F. I do try to apply when the soil is totally drenched from several days worth of rain. Definitely the best results come when the soil is pretty saturated.

You should try to apply several weeks before you need the nematodes. That gives them some time to multiply.

[patri-b]

Wow! Your reply answered alot...Thank you sooooooo much :) . That's what I will probably do. I just didn't know if it was getting too late in the year to try to battle them.

Thanks a bunch...keep ya posted!


Patri