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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.
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.
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.
What is the best time to treat for grubs?
The preventive compound chlorantraniliprole should ideally be applied in April or May to control grubs that would be damaging turf in the fall as it will take longer for the material to move to where the grubs will be feeding in July. To kill grubs in the spring or fall, use carbaryl or trichlorfon.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is milky spore safe for vegetable gardens?
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 harm bees?
Answer: Milky Spore Powder is a natural, safe and effective grub control product that is OMRI certified organic. It does not affect pets, beneficial insects, fish, bees, birds, other animals, plants, or man. It is not a poison.
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.
When should I apply pesticides to my lawn?
The best time to use a pesticide is when the soil is moderately dry and no rain is expected, on a cloudy day when temperatures are moderate. Never apply pesticide when there is wind to prevent the chemical from drifting to non-target areas.
How soon after treating for grubs can you plant grass seed?
Before you can seed, you should wait until the grubs pupate into beetles and fly out of the ground. That will be when soil temps get consistently around 70 degrees.
What time of year do grubs lay eggs?
Timing varies by Beetle species and region, but generally adults emerge from soil, mate, and lay eggs over the course of two to three weeks in early to midsummer. Depending on soil moisture and temperature, eggs hatch about two weeks after being laid, in mid-to late summer.
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.
How do you control grubs organically?
So, let’s look at some home remedies for grubs and natural ways to get rid of grubs. Encourage birds to hang out in your yard. Feed your chickens. Limit irrigation. Relocate them. Treat with milky spore. Introduce beneficial nematodes. Apply neem oil. Repel the beetles.
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.
How long can you store milky spore?
Answer: Milky Spore Powder has a shelf life of 3 years.
