Nematodes for Leatherjackets 100 sq.m

If you're noticing yellowing patches, thinning grass, or areas of lawn that lift like loose carpet, you may be dealing with leatherjackets – the soil-dwelling larvae of crane flies (also known as daddy-long-legs). These pests feed on grass roots, weakening turf and creating ideal conditions for further lawn decline.

Biological Lawn Treatment for Crane Fly Larvae, Daddy Long Legs

Our Leatherjacket Nematodes offer a natural, effective, and chemical-free solution. These microscopic nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) actively seek out and infect leatherjackets in the soil, stopping the damage at its root.

This pack treats 100 sq.m you can find a larger pack of nematodes on this listing.

What Are Leatherjacket Nematodes?

Leatherjacket Nematodes are microscopic, soil-dwelling organisms that target and eliminate leatherjackets (crane fly larvae). This product contains the beneficial species Steinernema carpocapsae, widely used for controlling soil-based insect pests.

When to Apply Leatherjacket Nematodes for Best Results

Leatherjacket Nematodes can be applied throughout the season, but results are strongest during:

• Late August to October – This is when crane fly eggs hatch and larvae begin feeding near the soil surface.

• March to April – A secondary application in spring may be useful if signs of lawn damage persist after winter.

How to Apply Leatherjacket Nematodes to Your Lawn

• Pre-water the area to moisten the soil.
• Mix the nematodes with water following the product instructions.
• Apply using a watering can or hose-end sprayer, watering can rose distributing evenly across the lawn.
• Water again immediately after to help the nematodes move into the soil.
• Maintain soil moisture for at least 7 days post-application.

This treatment is safe to use around pets, children, pollinators, and other wildlife.

Identifying Leatherjacket Damage in Lawns

Typical signs of a leatherjacket infestation include:

1. Yellowing or thinning grass
2. Grass that lifts easily from the soil
3. Spongey patches underfoot
4. Unusual bird or wildlife activity, such as digging or pecking at the turf

Leatherjackets are visible just beneath the surface. They are legless, grey-brown larvae measuring 2–3 cm long. Damage often follows the appearance of adult crane flies in late summer.

Why Choose a Natural Leatherjacket Treatment?

Leatherjacket Nematodes offer a biological solution that supports your garden's ecosystem. Unlike chemical insecticides, these nematodes are naturally occurring organisms that multiply and work within the soil to control pests safely and sustainably.

Storage and Shelf Life of Nematodes

• This is a live biological product and must be stored in the refrigerator upon arrival.
• Nematodes typically have a shelf life of around 2 weeks.
• Due to their perishable nature, returns are not accepted.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What area does one pack of Leatherjacket Nematodes treat?

This 100 sq.m pack is suitable for treating a medium-sized lawn. If your garden is larger or experiencing heavy leatherjacket infestation, you can apply a second treatment or use a larger pack for full coverage.

When is the best time to apply Leatherjacket Nematodes for control?

Apply in late August to November when crane fly eggs have hatched and larvae are active near the surface. A follow-up treatment in March or April may help tackle any larvae that survived the winter.

How do you apply these nematodes to the lawn?

Mix the contents with water as per the instructions, then apply using a coarse-rose watering can or hose-end sprayer. Water the lawn immediately afterwards to help the nematodes penetrate into the soil.

What soil conditions improve Leatherjacket Nematode effectiveness?

Nematodes perform best in moist soil with a temperature above 10°C. Keep the treated area damp for at least 7 days after application to give the nematodes time to reach and infect the leatherjacket larvae.

How can I identify if leatherjacket larvae are present?

Common signs include yellowing grass, bare patches, spongy turf, and birds pecking at the ground. You may see grey-brown, legless larvae (2–3 cm long) just below the soil surface.