How can beneficial nematodes be used in turf pest management?

• A. They are applied to the soil to infect and kill grub larvae and other soil-dwelling pests
• B. They are sprayed on leaves for foliar pests
• C. They are used as a fertilizer
• D. They are a chemical pesticide

Answer: (A)

Beneficial nematodes work as living biological control agents that target pests living in the soil. When you apply them to turf soil, they move through the moist soil to find grub larvae and other soil-dwelling pests. Once inside the host, they release symbiotic bacteria that rapidly kill the insect, and new nematodes reproduce to attack additional pests. This approach targets the pest where it actually lives, making it effective for grub control without resorting to chemicals. For best results, apply as a soil drench or with irrigation when the soil is moist and temperatures are suitable; they won’t work on leaves, aren’t used as a fertilizer, and aren’t a chemical pesticide.