Leatherjacket Nematodes Nemasys

Leatherjackets, the larvae of crane flies or daddy-long-legs, can severely damage your lawn, leaving unsightly yellow patches and dead grass. Managing these pests effectively is essential to restore and maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn.

When are leatherjackets most active?

You can expect to see adult daddy-long-legs in your garden towards the end of August. Shortly after, they will lay eggs, which hatch within two weeks. The larvae begin feeding on grassroots, causing damage that continues through winter and into spring.

The young crane fly larvae start to feed on the roots of grass, continuing throughout Winter and into Spring.

How do I treat leatherjacket insects?

Treat your lawn with nematodes, microscopic worms that enter the larvae, release bacteria, and cause the larvae to die. Simply mix the nematodes with water, apply to your lawn, and keep the area moist to allow them to move around. This method is environmentally friendly and safe for children, pets, and wildlife, so there’s no need to exclude them from treated areas.

When should I apply the nematodes? 

How do I know if I have chafer grubs or leatherjackets?

Chafer grubs are C-shaped, white with a distinct orange head and six legs. In contrast, leatherjackets are grey or brown, worm-like, and legless.

What damage do leatherjacket larvae do to my lawn?

They cause yellow patches, thinning grass, and make the grass easy to pull up.

How to use leatherjacket nematodes:

Nematodes come with instructions and can be applied using a watering can with a rose with large holes or a nematode applicator. Apply to moist soil when the temperature is above 10ºC (50ºF) and ensure the soil remains moist for at least two weeks after application.

Drop in temperature after applying nematodes:

Nematodes can survive occasional frost, so don’t worry if the temperature drops after application.

Delivery:

Delivery is free when ordering only nematodes. Standard delivery charges apply if purchasing other items. Note that nematodes are live material with an expiry date of around two weeks and cannot be returned.