{"title":"Leatherjacket Nematodes","description":"\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeatherjacket Nematodes, Protect Your Lawn from Crane Fly Larvae\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIf your lawn has developed yellowing patches, turf that lifts easily from the soil, or you've noticed starlings and crows persistently pecking at the grass, leatherjackets are the likely culprit. These grey-brown, legless larvae are the underground stage of the crane fly (daddy-long-legs), and they feed on grass roots through autumn, winter, and into spring, often causing the worst visible damage just as the growing season begins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe life cycle is the key to effective control. Adult crane flies emerge from late July through to September and lay eggs in the turf within 24 hours of hatching. Those eggs hatch within two weeks, and the newly emerged larvae are small, active, and highly vulnerable to nematodes. This is your treatment window. By late spring the larvae have grown considerably and are approaching pupation, at that size, nematodes struggle to kill them. Timing your application to late August through October, when larvae are freshly hatched and soil is still warm, gives you the best possible result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eA spring treatment in April is also worthwhile if you missed the autumn window or have a persistent infestation. Apply at double strength in spring, as mature leatherjackets are significantly harder to kill than newly hatched larvae.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"leatherjacket-nematodes-gardening-naturally","title":"Leatherjacket Nematodes 100sqm Lawn Treatment area","description":"\u003cp\u003eLeatherjackets are one of the most common causes of lawn damage in UK gardens. These grey-brown larvae are the young stage of crane flies, often called daddy-long-legs, and they live in the soil feeding on grass roots. When large numbers are present, lawns may develop yellow patches, thinning turf and areas that lift easily from the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 100 square metre pack of leatherjacket nematodes provides a natural method for managing these root-feeding pests. Once applied with water, the microscopic nematodes move through moist soil where leatherjackets are active, helping to reduce their numbers and support healthier grass growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat are leatherjackets?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeatherjackets are legless larvae that live just below the soil surface. They feed on the roots of grass plants throughout autumn and winter and can cause significant lawn damage by spring. Adult crane flies appear in late summer and lay eggs in lawns, which hatch within a couple of weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhen to apply leatherjacket nematodes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most effective time to apply leatherjacket nematodes is shortly after the crane fly egg hatch period, when the young larvae are active near the surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBest applied from late August to October\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpring treatment can help if damage continues\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply when soil temperature is above 8°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply to moist soil and keep the lawn damp afterwards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSigns of leatherjackets in lawns\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYellow or patchy grass\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeak turf that lifts easily\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBirds pecking at the lawn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrey-brown larvae found just below the soil surface\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to apply\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater the lawn before treatment if the soil is dry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMix the nematodes with water according to the instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply evenly across the lawn using a \u003ca href=\"\/products\/watering-can-for-nematodes\" title=\"watering can for nematodes\"\u003ewatering can for nematodes\u003c\/a\u003e can or an \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nematode-applicator-feeder\" title=\"Applicator for Nematodes\"\u003eapplicator for nematodes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater again after application to help them move into the soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the treated area moist for at least 7 days.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSafe biological lawn treatment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeatherjacket nematodes are a biological control rather than a chemical treatment. When used as directed they are suitable for family gardens and can be applied to lawns accessed by pets, children and wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNeed more information on leatherjackets?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/nematodes\/leatherjackets-and-chafer-grubs\" title=\"Do I have a leatherjacket or chafer problem?\"\u003eDo I have a leatherjacket or chafer problem?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/nematodes\/how-do-nematodes-work\" title=\"How do nematodes work\"\u003eHow do nematodes work\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/nematodes\/frequently-asked-questions-about-leatherjacket-nematodes\" title=\"Frequently asked questions on leatherjacket nematodes\"\u003eFrequently asked questions on leatherjacket nematodes\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/nematodes\/nematodes-how-to-use\" title=\"How to use nematodes\"\u003eHow to use nematodes\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStorage information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product contains live nematodes and should be stored in the refrigerator on arrival. They normally have a shelf life of around two weeks from dispatch and should be used before the expiry date. Due to the perishable nature of live nematodes, this product is non-returnable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat area does this pack treat?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne pack treats up to 100 square metres of lawn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should leatherjacket nematodes be applied?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main treatment window is late summer to early autumn when crane fly eggs have hatched and young larvae are feeding in the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do I know if leatherjackets are present?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSigns include thinning or yellow grass, birds feeding on the lawn, and turf that lifts easily due to root damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAre nematodes safe to use?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Nematodes are naturally occurring organisms used in biological pest control and are suitable for domestic gardens when used as directed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardening Naturally","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48523301454166,"sku":"LJ50","price":17.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0835\/5174\/8438\/files\/leatherjacket-nematodes-uk.png?v=1730726480"},{"product_id":"leather-jacket-nematodes","title":"Nemasys Leatherjacket Nematodes 100 sq.m","description":"\u003cp\u003eNemasys Leatherjacket Nematodes are a natural biological treatment for lawns damaged by leatherjackets, the root-feeding larvae of crane flies, often known as daddy long legs. This 100 square metre pack is designed to help reduce leatherjacket activity in the soil and support healthier grass growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat are leatherjackets?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeatherjackets are grey-brown, legless larvae that feed on grass roots below the soil surface. Affected lawns may show thinning grass, yellow patches and weak turf that lifts easily. Birds may also peck at the lawn as they search for the larvae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow Nemasys Leatherjacket Nematodes work\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNemasys Leatherjacket Nematodes contain beneficial nematodes that are applied with water to moist soil. Once watered in, they move through the soil and help control leatherjackets naturally, reducing further root damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhen to apply\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor best results, apply from late August to October, when crane fly eggs have hatched and young leatherjackets are active near the soil surface. A spring treatment may also help if lawn damage continues after winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBest applied from late August to October\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan also be used in spring if needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply to moist soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoil temperature should be above 5°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the lawn damp after application\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater the lawn before treatment if the soil is dry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMix the nematodes with water following the instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply evenly using a watering can or suitable applicator.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater again after application.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the soil moist for at least 7 days.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSafe biological lawn treatment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a live biological treatment and can be used on lawns accessed by pets, children and wildlife when used as directed. There is no need to keep anyone off the treated area after application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStorage and shelf life\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStore in the fridge on arrival. Nematodes are a live product and typically have a shelf life of around two weeks from dispatch. Use before the expiry date. Due to their perishable nature, nematodes are non-returnable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIf these are not available we have another option?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can also view our \u003ca title=\"Gardening Naturally Leatherjacket Nematodes\" href=\"\/products\/leatherjacket-nematodes-gardening-naturally\"\u003eGardening Naturally Leatherjacket Nematodes 100 sq.m\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat area does this pack treat?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis pack treats up to 100 square metres of lawn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen is the best time to apply Nemasys Leatherjacket Nematodes?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main application period is late August to October, when young larvae are active near the soil surface. Spring application may also be helpful where leatherjacket damage continues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat are the signs of leatherjackets in a lawn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTypical signs include yellowing grass, thinning turf, bird pecking and grass that lifts easily because the roots have been eaten.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAre Nemasys Leatherjacket Nematodes safe around pets and children?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, they are a biological lawn treatment suitable for family gardens when used as directed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nemasys","offers":[{"title":"100 sq.m","offer_id":48523307024726,"sku":"LJ003","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"500 sq.m","offer_id":48552053244246,"sku":"JL002","price":74.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0835\/5174\/8438\/files\/biological-leatherjacket-nematodes.png?v=1772624661"},{"product_id":"long-life-leatherjacket-nematodes","title":"Long Life Leatherjacket Nematodes","description":"\u003cp\u003eLong life leatherjacket nematodes are slow release pearls used to target leatherjacket larvae in soil. They help reduce root feeding in lawns and planted areas where larvae weaken grass and young plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable for gardeners, allotment growers and households treating lawns, beds and growing areas with signs of leatherjacket damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLong life leatherjacket nematodes for larvae in lawn soil\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach pearl contains beneficial nematodes held inside a hydrogel capsule. After watering, the pearls break down and release them into moist soil where leatherjacket larvae are active.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eApplying leatherjacket nematodes to lawns and garden areas\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse on lawns, borders and beds where root damage is visible. Apply evenly across moist soil to support movement into the root zone after watering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhen to use long life leatherjacket nematodes in UK conditions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApply between August and October when larvae are active near the soil surface. Use in the evening or during damp conditions. Soil temperature should be at least 5°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to apply long life leatherjacket nematodes to soil\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApply around 15g per m², roughly one and a half teaspoons. Sprinkle over moist soil and water thoroughly after application to activate release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStoring long life leatherjacket nematodes before use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStore in the original breathable packaging in a cool place away from heat and sunlight. The product can be used in stages before the expiry date shown on the pack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBenefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTargets leatherjacket larvae in soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSlow release pearls support gradual application\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo mixing required before use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuitable for lawns, beds and planted areas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan be applied in stages if required\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProduct type: leatherjacket nematodes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFormat: slow release pearls\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCoverage: up to 20m²\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePack weight: approx 280g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApplication rate: approx 15g per m²\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinimum soil temperature: 5°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMoisture requirement: keep soil moist for 3 to 4 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStorage: cool place in original breathable packaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefrigeration: not required\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSizes: 20m² pack\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003efrequently asked questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan leatherjacket nematodes be used on newly seeded lawns?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, they can be applied to newly seeded areas where larvae may affect early grass establishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill leatherjacket nematodes work in compacted soil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey can be used, but watering and maintaining moisture will help movement through tighter soil conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan leatherjacket nematodes be applied after mowing the lawn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, applying after mowing can help improve contact with the soil surface before watering in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDo leatherjacket nematodes affect other insects in the soil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are designed to target specific larvae and do not affect most other soil organisms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan leatherjacket nematodes be used more than once in a season?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, repeat applications can be used where activity continues or where damage remains visible.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardening Naturally","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52972049760598,"sku":"LLJ20","price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0835\/5174\/8438\/files\/long-life-leatherjacket-nematodes.png?v=1774882720"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0835\/5174\/8438\/collections\/Leather-Jacket-Nematodse-100sq-front.jpg?v=1775049116","url":"https:\/\/slug-nematodes.co.uk\/collections\/leatherjacket-nematodes.oembed","provider":"Slug Nematodes","version":"1.0","type":"link"}