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To reach maximum spore levels in the soil and achieve best grub control, Milky Spore Granular should be applied before grubs hatch in the spring, summer and fall for 2 consecutive years. The times of year can vary somewhat as applications can be made any time the ground is not frozen.
When should I apply milky spore to my lawn?
It is most effective to apply Milky Spore in the summer and early fall. The soil must be above 65 degrees F when the grubs are actively feeding, which is the best time for application. It works best to apply just before rainfall, or water in lightly after application to soak into soil.
How often should you apply milky spore?
Milky spore powder is typically applied in a matrix pattern, a teaspoonful every four feet in rows four feet apart. Some newer formulations allow for application through a drop spreader. It is much easier to apply but must be applied three times a year for two years as opposed to just once.
Can milky spore be applied in spring?
Milky spore powder is a biological control — a naturally-occurring soil organism that is deadly to Japanese beetle grubs that ingest the spores in warm soil. Those points are important. Even though milky spore is sold in the spring, but it does not work in the spring.
How long does it take for Milky Spore to work?
Milky Spore begins working as soon as it is applied as long as grubs are feeding. Once grubs are infected they will multiply the Spore by several billion times and spread it further. In warm climates good control can occur in one to three years. In colder areas like New England, three to five years.
Which is better milky spore powder or granules?
For long term treatments, we would recommend using Milky Spore Powder. This is a slower acting product, but it will last about 15-20 years in the soil after one application. With Merit Granules, it is most effective when applied prior to, or just after, egg lay.
How effective is milky spore?
Research has determined that milky spore has no impact on beneficial organisms in the soil. In addition, it appears that the bacterium is compatible with Tiphia wasps, which are parasitoids of Japanese beetle grubs.
Does milky spore get rid of moles?
According to Planet Natural.com, Milky Spore is a safe, organic way to eliminate moles, because it only works on the grubs and doesn’t infect people, pets or even the moles. It just deprives moles of a major food source.
Does milky spore harm earthworms?
Milky spore is a bacterium specifically for killing white grubs, which are the larvae of Japanese beetles. Although it may affect some other types of grubs, it will not harm earthworms, pets or wildlife. Milky spore needs to be in the soil for about three years before it becomes completely effective.
Can milky spore be used in a vegetable garden?
Is Milky Spore Safe? Milky spore disease is specific for Japanese beetles and it won’t harm humans, other animals, or plants. It is safe to use on lawn and ornamental plants as well as vegetable gardens.
Can you use a broadcast spreader for milky spore?
Milky Spore Spreader Mix is too light to be used with a broadcast spreader. It must be placed in concentrated areas on the lawn and that is why it must be used with a drop spreader over every square foot of grass. Milky Spore Spreader Mix is too light to be used with a broadcast spreader.
Can you apply Milky Spore with a spreader?
Milky spore powder is very fine, and cannot be spread with a broadcast spreader. A drop spreader places milky spore on the lawn in spots where it will be watered into the soil and moved through it by Japanese beetle grubs.
What happens if you inhale milky spore?
Milky spore is not toxic to humans or animals, but the spores are in a powder carrier form that can irritate eyes and throat. It also contains chalk. Wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and coughing may occur in those with preexisting respiratory problems such bronchitis, emphysema or asthma.
Is milky spore BT?
BT is bacillus thuringiensis. Milky spore is (or used to be) bacillus popilliae. BT just kills caterpillars. Doesn’t do anything to “future generations” because the caterpillars that eat the BT don’t live long enough to produce any.
Are nematodes beneficial?
Parasitic nematodes are beneficial for six reasons. First, they have such a wide host range that they can be used successfully on numerous insect pests. The nematodes’ nonspecific development, which does not rely on specific host nutrients, allows them to infect a large number of insect species.
How long can you store milky spore?
Answer: Milky Spore Powder has a shelf life of 3 years.
How do you get rid of grubs naturally?
These include milky spore, neem oil, and nematodes — available at most garden centers. Milky spore is a disease that can effectively treat lawn grubs and is environmentally safe. Neem oil is a botanical pesticide containing insecticidal properties. Beneficial nematodes are also used as natural grub treatment.
How much does milky spore cost?
Milky Spore Powder Size / Description Qty box (10 oz) $49.23 Buy 2 or more: $44.67 each 0 box (40 oz) $101.23 Buy 2 or more: $99.18 each 0 case (6 x 10 oz boxes) $183.21 Save! Get 6 for only $30.54 each 0 case (4 x 40 oz boxes) $278.16 Save! Get 4 for only $69.54 each 0.
