Nematodes for Leatherjackets 100 sq.m Gardening Naturally
Nematodes for Leatherjackets 100 sq.m Gardening Naturally is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
If your lawn is turning yellow, becoming patchy, or lifting like loose carpet, leatherjackets may be feeding below the surface. Leatherjackets are the larvae of crane flies, often called daddy long legs, and they damage lawns by feeding on grass roots.
This 100 square metre pack of leatherjacket nematodes is a natural biological treatment designed to target larvae in the soil.
What are leatherjackets?
Leatherjackets are grey-brown, legless larvae that live in the soil and feed on grass roots. As root damage increases, lawns can become weak, thin, yellow and easy to pull up. Birds may also peck at the lawn as they search for the larvae.
How leatherjacket nematodes work
Leatherjacket nematodes are microscopic organisms that move through moist soil and seek out leatherjackets. This treatment contains beneficial nematodes used for controlling soil-dwelling lawn pests. Once applied, they help reduce larval activity naturally, supporting stronger root growth and healthier grass.
When to apply leatherjacket nematodes in the UK
The best time to treat leatherjackets is from late August to October, when crane fly eggs have hatched and young larvae are active near the soil surface. A spring application can also be useful if lawn damage continues after winter.
- Best timing: late August to October
- Also suitable: spring if damage is still present
- Apply to moist soil
- Soil temperature should be above 5°C
- Keep the lawn moist after treatment
Signs of leatherjackets in a lawn
- Yellowing or thinning grass
- Bare or weak patches
- Turf that lifts easily
- Bird activity on the lawn
- Grey-brown legless larvae just below the soil surface
How to apply
- Water the lawn before treatment if the soil is dry.
- Mix the nematodes with water following the pack instructions.
- Apply evenly using a watering can or hose-end nematode applicator.
- Water again after application.
- Keep the soil damp for at least 7 days.
Safe biological lawn treatment
This is a live biological treatment rather than a chemical control. It is suitable for lawns used by children, pets and wildlife when used as directed. There is no need to keep people off the lawn after application.
Storage and shelf life
Nematodes are a live product and should be stored in the fridge on arrival. They usually have a shelf life of around two weeks from dispatch. Use the full pack before the expiry date. As a live product, nematodes are non-returnable.
Need a different pack size?
For larger lawns, see our larger leatherjacket nematode pack here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area does this pack treat?
This pack treats up to 100 square metres of lawn.
When is the best time to apply leatherjacket nematodes?
The ideal time is late August to October, when young larvae are active in the soil. A spring treatment may also help if damage continues.
How do I know if I have leatherjackets?
Common signs include yellowing grass, weak turf, bird pecking and grass that lifts easily. The larvae are usually grey-brown, legless and found just below the soil surface.
Can I use this around pets and children?
Yes, this is a biological lawn treatment and is suitable for family gardens when used as directed.
How long do the nematodes last once delivered?
They are live organisms and usually have a shelf life of around two weeks if stored correctly in the fridge.
Leatherjacket Articles
Nematodes for Leatherjackets 100 sq.m Gardening Naturally
