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Milky Spore targets and kills Japanese beetle grubs, a familiar destructive pest, before they can grow into adult beetles. Then the spores reproduce inside the grub, eventually killing grub within 7-21 days. As the grub decomposes, it releases millions of new spores and these multiply and kill other grubs.
How long does it take milky spore to work?
Milky Spore Powder 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, it may take three to five years.
Does milky spore actually work?
Milky spore disease is a bacterium that was initially referred to as Bacillus popillae, but it is now known as Paenibacillus popillae. The bacterium is applied to turfgrass as a dust. It is effective only in controlling Japanese beetle grubs; it has virtually no activity on other grub species.
When should I apply milky spore?
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.
Do you need to water in milky spore?
They don’t usually need to be watered in but should not be introduced to a dry soil. Nematodes move through soil moisture and can migrate easily into a moist soil. Applying after rain or irrigation is best. Timing with milky spore is not as important.
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.
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.
Which grub Killer is best?
The best grub killers we have listed below. These are to be used in the summer when grubs are actively damaging your lawns. Dylox 6.2 Granular Insecticide. Sevin. Bayer 24 Hour Grub Killer Plus. Arena. Sumari.
What is milky spore made of?
Milky Spore uses the naturally occurring bacterium, Paenibacillus popilliae. This bacillus primarily targets Japanese Beetle grubs, the soil-dwelling larval stage, before they become the destructive adults. These grubs target lawn and garden soil, causing unsightly damage to turf and crop loss where they are active.
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.
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.
Why do I have grubs in my yard?
Grubs can be found within your lawn during the late summer months after the beetles have laid their eggs around July. Female beetles lay their eggs about one or two inches deep in the soil. By devouring the grass roots, they begin to kill off patches of your lawn, leaving it brown in certain areas.
How do I prevent grubs in my lawn?
To kill grubs in the spring or fall, use carbaryl or trichlorfon. Always wear rubber gloves and rubber boots when applying insecticides to turfgrass. Make sure to irrigate the lawn with at least 0.5 inches of water* and allow the grass to dry before allowing anyone or pets into the treated area.
Can I use milky spore in 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.
Does milky spore expire?
Milky Spore has unlimited shelf life as long as it is stored in a cool dry place. Milky Spore is not a chemical pesticide. The only thing that Milky Spore affects is Japanese Beetle Grubs.
Do nematodes eat grubs?
Nematode Biology Beneficial nematodes and the bacteria they spread are not known to be harmful to humans, animals, plants, earthworms and other non-target organisms, but they do aggressively pursue insects like grubs.
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.
Does milky spore harm dogs?
Milky Spore is an all-natural product that will not harm dogs or other non-target animals.
