Ok, so here is my problem. My yard is constantly getting torn up by ground moles. They are there because I have grubs. I read that the best non chemical way to get rid of them is by using nematodes. I have also read that nematodes can harm the roots of trees.
So, has anyone had issues with grubs and used nematodes in an orchard environment?
Ground moles, grubs, and nematodes
Moderator: appledude
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- Location: Mid Michigan
Re: Ground moles, grubs, and nematodes
I read someplace (maybe USDA) that nematodes are detrimental to orchards. I wanted to apply to my lawn where my apple trees are located; however have to look for an alternative. The voles (not moles) seem to be doing a good job at finding and eating grubs.
Calville Blc,Hewes,Nehou,Fearns P,Siberian,Cox OP,Spitz,Ananas Reinette,BdB,Kingston Blk,Tremlett's,Muscat de Bernay,Ashmead's,Rambo,Stayman,Macoun,Jefferis,Winesap,Red Berlepsch
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- Posts: 77
- Joined: Tue Jan 31, 2012 12:29 pm
- Location: Mid Michigan
Re: Ground moles, grubs, and nematodes
That's what I read as well. The nemotodes attack the roots of the trees and hinder growth.
I'd rather not use regular chemicals, which is what I think my neighbors use, because they never have mole hills in their yards.
It's pretty gross in May/June/July when all the grubs turn to June Bugs and fly all over the place.
I'd rather not use regular chemicals, which is what I think my neighbors use, because they never have mole hills in their yards.
It's pretty gross in May/June/July when all the grubs turn to June Bugs and fly all over the place.
Re: Ground moles, grubs, and nematodes
I have started noticing more than normal mole hills in the surrounding fields. I haven't noticed any in my neighbors yards. We had bumper crops of Jap. bettle, leaf hoppers, and crickets this year. I am lucky the voles moved in and dig holes about 1-2 inches deep about 3-4 feet out from my young trees and in the lawn; natural aerators. I have started collecting flat rocks and placing around my trees to keep the voles from getting any closer to the trunks and going after tree roots.
I will do more research about nematodes this winter before applying any to my gardens.
I will do more research about nematodes this winter before applying any to my gardens.
Calville Blc,Hewes,Nehou,Fearns P,Siberian,Cox OP,Spitz,Ananas Reinette,BdB,Kingston Blk,Tremlett's,Muscat de Bernay,Ashmead's,Rambo,Stayman,Macoun,Jefferis,Winesap,Red Berlepsch