Larvanem
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Product Details
Larvanem — Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Larvanem contains infective third-stage juveniles (L3) of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, an entomopathogenic nematode that targets a broad range of soil-dwelling pests including weevils, white grubs, root aphids, and more. These microscopic roundworms actively seek out insect hosts in the root zone, enter through natural openings or thin cuticle, and release symbiotic bacteria that kill the pest within hours to a few days. Larvanem is chemical-free and safe for use in any growing environment including greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, flower beds, interiorscapes, outdoor landscapes, indoor plants including houseplants and more.
Use For
Larvanem targets the following pests:
Beetles (Coleoptera):
– Weevils (Otiorhynchus sulcatus and other Otiorhynchus spp.)
– White grubs (Scarabaeidae): European chafer (Amphimallon majale), Summer chafer (Amphimallon solstitialis), Common cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha), Common garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola), Phyllophaga spp., Welsh chafer (Hoplia philanthus), Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica), Oriental beetle (Anomala orientalis), Asiatic garden beetle (Autoserica castanea), Dune chafer (Anomala dubia), Brown chafer (Serica brunnea), Anoxia villosa
– Dung beetles (Aphodius spp.)
– Leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae): Flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.) — soil-stage larvae
Caterpillars (Lepidoptera):
– Common swift moth (Korscheltellus lupulina) — soil/root-zone stages
Other soil pests:
– Root aphids — root-zone stages
For fungus gnats and thrips pupae, layer with Entonem (Steinernema feltiae).
When to Use Larvanem
Use Larvanem preventively where soil pests are anticipated or curatively when pests are confirmed in the root zone.
Recommended for:
Hotspots with plant decline
Historic pressure zones and seasonal cycles
How It Works
Mode of Action: Infective juveniles (L3) locate hosts in soil/media, enter via spiracles, mouth, anus, or thin cuticle, and release symbiotic bacteria into the hemocoel. The bacteria rapidly convert host tissues into a digestible food source; death occurs within hours to a few days.
Reproduction: Nematodes feed, develop, and reproduce inside the cadaver; new infective juveniles emerge and disperse through moist media to infect additional hosts.
Visual Effect: Infected pests typically turn red to brown and degrade quickly, making cadavers hard to find.
Efficacy & Duration
High mortality of listed soil pests within 4–14 days, depending on temperature, moisture, species, and life stage.
Infective juveniles remain active in moist media for 2–3 weeks.
Performance improves within the optimal temperature range; cool soils slow activity and extend time-to-control.
Application Rates
Pressure Level Definition Rate per 10 sq. ft Repeat Interval Preventative History/risk present; no visible damage ~232,000 nematodes Every 2–3 weeks Light Pressure Early/localized pests or small hotspots ~232,000–300,000 Every 3–4 weeks Medium Pressure Multiple plants/zones affected; early decline ~300,000–380,000 Weekly until under control Heavy Pressure Widespread pests; turf/root decline evident ~380,000–464,000 Weekly; twice weekly in severe hotspots
Application Instructions
Preparation & Mixing
Mix one 50 million pack per 30–50 gallons of water per 1,000 sq. ft
Empty entire contents into a large bucket
Add water at ~70°F and mix thoroughly
Rinse bucket contents into sprayer tank using standard sieve
Maintain constant agitation throughout application
Use immediately after mixing — do not store longer than 4 hours
A wetting agent may improve effectiveness
Sprayer Setup
Remove all fine filters in tubing and nozzles (<0.3 mm); use nozzles ≥0.8 mm diameter
Maintain agitation or add carboxy-methyl cellulose (wallpaper paste) at 0.4% w/v to prevent settling (still use within 4 hours)
Do not exceed pump pressure of 20 bar / 300 psi; for Dosatron max 6 bar / 100 psi
Timing & Conditions
Apply early morning or late evening to minimize heat and sunlight; turn off artificial lights that dry surfaces too quickly
Soil surface must be moist at the time of application
Direct-to-soil drench: Apply at least 4 liters/m² (~1 gallon per 10 sq. ft); for Chafer Grub, 1,200 L/ha
Foliage drench: Use lower water volumes and irrigate within 30 minutes with at least 1 liter/m² (~0.25 gallon per 10 sq. ft) to rinse nematodes into soil
Keep soil moist for 3–4 weeks after application
Water pH: 4–8; tank temp ≤77°F
Best Working Conditions
Temperature: Active 61–95°F; optimal 66–91°F
Moisture: Maintain high soil/media moisture for several days post-application
UV Sensitivity: Do not apply in direct sunlight
Product Specifications
Species: Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Active Stage: Infective juveniles (L3)
Formulation: Gel-based carrier
Pack Sizes: 50 million, 500 million
Target Zone: Soil and soilless media (peat, coco, bark mixes)
Compatibility
Avoid mixing with pesticides and adjuvants unless compatibility is confirmed
If uncertain, avoid pesticide applications 1 week before and 2 weeks after nematode use
Do not tank-mix with fertilizers (fertilize before or after is fine)
For specifics, consult our compatability page
What to Expect
Nematodes begin seeking hosts immediately after application
Pest death occurs within hours to a few days
Visible recovery may take 1–2 weeks
Reapply based on scouting and seasonal cycles
Recommended IPM Pairings
Entomite-M (Stratiolaelaps scimitus) — for root aphids and fungus gnats
Entonem (Steinernema feltiae) — layer for fungus gnats and thrips pupae
Horiver Yellow sticky traps — monitor target activity
FAQs
Can I store this for later?
Long-term storage is not recommended. Apply promptly after receipt. Products ship fresh and may be refrigerated up to their expiration date, typically one month from shipping. Allow the product to reach room temperature before use. Holding past expiration reduces effectiveness and quality.
Does Larvanem contain live nematodes?
Yes — Larvanem contains infective juveniles (L3) of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora in a gel-based carrier.
Is Larvanem safe for indoor plants?
Yes — Larvanem is chemical-free and suitable for greenhouses and container-grown plants.
Can I use Larvanem on turf?
Yes — Larvanem is effective against white grubs and billbug larvae in turf when applied to moist soil and irrigated in.
Can Larvanem be applied as a foliar spray?
Larvanem is designed for soil applications. If sprayed over foliage, rinse into the media within 30 minutes.
How soon will I see results?
Pests typically die within hours to a few days after infection. Visible recovery occurs in 1–2 weeks.
How long does Larvanem remain effective?
Larvanem remains active in moist soil for 2–3 weeks. Maintain soil moisture for 3–4 weeks post-application.
Have more questions about Larvanem? Check out our resources below:
Nematode Application Tips
Frequently Asked Questions about NematodesQuestions about Larvanem?
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Shipping Info
For delivery mid- week, order must be placed by 12 pm on Thursday. For delivery on Friday, order must be placed by 12 pm on Monday of the same week.
Please allow 1 business day to receive a pdf order confirmation with your expected shipping date.
