Long Life Fruit & Veg Nematodes 20sq.m (280g)

Nematode pearls release beneficial nematodes into the soil to control common soil pests and reduce root damage around plants. They help protect crops from underground larvae that feed below the surface and affect healthy growth.

Suitable for gardeners growing vegetable plants, seedlings and container plants indoors or outdoors.

How nematode pearls control soil pests around plants

Each pearl contains thousands of beneficial nematodes inside a hydrogel capsule. Once watered, the capsule breaks down gradually and releases the nematodes into the soil where they move naturally to target pest larvae.

Where to use nematode pearls for indoor and outdoor growing

Apply nematode pearls to the soil surface around plant stems in pots, raised beds, borders, greenhouse beds and vegetable plots. They are suitable for indoor and outdoor use where soil pests live below the surface.

This makes them useful for gardeners dealing with hidden larvae that damage roots before signs appear above ground.

How often to reapply nematode pearls

Like all nematode treatments, reapplication is needed to maintain control. For best results, repeat weekly for at least five applications to keep infestations low. The benefit of the long life format is that you can buy in advance and store the product, until you are ready to apply, giving you more flexibility over your treatment schedule.

When to apply nematode pearls for soil pest control

Apply during the evening or in overcast or rainy weather when soil conditions are more suitable. The minimum soil temperature must be 5°C for use. Contains 10 Million Nematodes/ Mix of Steinernema feltiae and Steinernema carpocapsae.

Use mixed fruit and vegetable nematodes from April to October when pests are active around crops and growing areas.

• Cabbage root fly: April to September
• Carrot fly: April to October
• Onion fly: April to August
• Cutworm: Throughout the year
• Caterpillars, gooseberry sawfly and thrips: March to September
• Codling moth: April to late June and again from September to October

After application, keep the soil moist for three to four weeks and do not allow it to dry out, as moisture helps nematodes move through the soil.

How to apply nematode pearls around vegetable plants

No mixing is required. Apply approximately 0.5 teaspoon, around 5g, per plant to the soil surface around the stems, then water in thoroughly.

The pack can be used in stages if needed, making it useful for staggered planting or treating selected areas over time.

What pests nematode pearls target in the soil

Nematode pearls are designed to target the larvae of several common soil pests that attack roots and young plants. By focusing on these stages in the soil, they help reduce further pest development in growing areas.

This treatment helps control carrot fly, cabbage root fly, cutworm, onion fly, sciarid fly and wireworm in the soil around plant roots.

This treatment is suited to gardeners looking for a simple way to manage more than one type of soil pest with one application.

Sizes and coverage for nematode pearls 20m² pack

This pack weighs approximately 280g and treats up to 20m² or around 50 plants. Always apply at approximately 5g per plant and water in after use.

Store in the original breathable packaging in a cool place away from heat and direct sunlight. The expiry date on the pack tells you how long the product can be stored before use.

No need for refrigeration

(Current batch expires 03/08/2026) 

Benefits of nematode pearls for soil pest control

• No mixing required before use
• Treats up to 20m2 or around 50 plants
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor growing areas
• Targets several common soil dwelling pests
• Can be used in stages if required

Specifications

• Product type: Nematode pearls for soil pest control
• Coverage: Up to 20m2
• Plant coverage: Approx. 50 plants
• Pack weight: Approx. 280g
• Application rate: Approx. 5g per plant
• Minimum soil temperature: 5°C
• Shelf life: Current batch expires 03/08/2026
• Storage: Store in original breathable packaging in a cool place

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are they called "long life"?

The name refers to the extended shelf life of the product. Standard nematodes must be used very soon after purchase, while long life nematodes can be stored and used flexibly any time before the expiry date. You do not have to use them all at once. This makes them ideal if you want to buy ahead of time or apply in stages. Once applied, they work in the same way as standard nematodes.

Do I still need to reapply?

Yes. Like all nematode treatments, for best results repeat weekly for at least five applications to keep infestations low. The long life format gives you more flexibility over when you apply, but each application works in the same way as a standard nematode treatment.

Can nematode pearls be used in pots and containers?

Yes, they can be used in pots, planters and containers as long as they are applied to moist soil and watered in thoroughly after use.

Can I use nematode pearls in a greenhouse?

Yes, they are suitable for greenhouse use and can be applied around plants growing in beds, pots and other protected growing areas.

How long should the soil stay moist after applying nematode pearls?

The soil should remain moist for three to four weeks after application so the nematodes can move through the soil properly.

Can the pack be used over more than one application?

Yes, the pack can be used in stages if required, provided it is stored correctly and used before the expiry date shown on the pack.

Why should nematode pearls be applied in the evening or during overcast weather?

Cooler and lower light conditions help support suitable soil conditions after application, especially when the treated area is watered in well.