How Do Beneficial Nematodes Work?
All life is a miracle, especially the beneficial nematode. Nematodes are microscopically small (0.6 to 1mm) unsegmented worms that occur naturally in the soil throughout the world. The most common beneficial nematodes belong to two families: Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Hb) and Steinernema carpocapse (Sc), The most versatile of all beneficial nematodes is (Sc). This species remains in an upright position near the soil surface and attaches to passing insects. On the other hand, (Hb) nematodes are capable of moving deep into the soil and controlling insects like white grubs.
For many years, beneficial nematode treatments were less successful in lawns with thatch because the thatch would impede the movement of nematodes into the root zone. In 2016, I had the opportunity to work with Dr. William T. (Billy) Crow, Professor of Nematology at the University of Florida. Dr. Crow evaluated the effects of a soil surfactant on the movements of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Hb) nematodes through turf thatch. On September 19, 2016, Dr. Crow reported that the experiment "worked perfectly this time". In fact, the soil surfactant inhibited the movement of Hb nematodes through the thatch. Nevertheless, this study was a success because it demonstrated for the first time that HB nematodes are capable of moving through a 3-inch layer of thatch and infecting insects.
In 1983, my father, Stephen Wilhelm, Ph.D., Professor of Plant Pathology at UC Berkeley (Hilgard Hall) was an early investor in The Nematode Farm established in Palo Alto, California. After a brief stint at TNF, I founded Nematec Bio-Control with the goal of delivering the highest quality beneficial nematodes to the Lawn Care Industry. One day, my father called me to his office and said that a scientist directly below his office on the second floor wanted to meet me. I rushed downstairs to find George O. Poinar Jr., Ph.D., one of the most renowned nematologists in the world. He gave me his most recent book, "The Natural History of Nematodes" published in 1983 and became my mentor for many years to come.
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