Nematodes

[Copper]

Has anyone used beneficial nematodes to feed Utricularia? It is what they eat in nature and I am considering using them. I am going to buy some to get rid of grubs, termites and other naughty insects and am thinking about starting a culture with a few. Any thoughts or experience?

Copper

 

[Dexenthes]

I say...

Forge ahead and tell us how it goes! I have not researched this or heard of anyone doing it. It sounds like a great idea though, and if you can find the beneficial nematodes then you should try it.

 

[Copper]

I have found some. I am placing the order today and will dig some grubs for a food source for them. I will keep you all updated on the results.

 

[RL7836]

I have found some. I am placing the order today and will dig some grubs for a food source for them. I will keep you all updated on the results.

Several years ago, I purchased some to kill the Japanese Beetle grubs in our yard. I also planned to take a few extra grubs and 'culture' the nematodes. Bottom line - the grubs stayed perfectly healthy and I got into a fight with the guy who sold them to me.

I hope your nematodes are the real thing ...

 

[gill_za]

Copper,

Were you successful in this? I have found some nematodes in the water washed out from my plants's pods and consider getting a terrestrial Utricularia to control them.

P.S: I am also considering buying Steinernema feltiae species of nematodes to controll the ones I have or maybe
Arthrobotrys conoides species of fungus to do the same.

 

[Not a Number]

Seems to me there are much cheaper (aka free) and less labor intensive alternatives like fungus gnats and springtails. If your plants are outdoors congratulations - you've been feeding them fungus gnat larvae and springtails. If not, put them outdoors for a few days each month when weather permits.