Capitol Bee CARE LLC - Tick Control ~ Nematode Add-On

Nematodes as Beneficial Microbes

Nematodes are soil microbes that predate on various bugs in the larval stage in the soil. Capitol Bee CARE has been using two species (Heterorhabditis indica and Steinernema riobrave) of these beneficial microbes in the soil around our hives for the past decade with great success at controlling small hive beetles. Despite the fact that we invest a lot of time and some expense in producing these two nematode species we have included treating the soil around the hives as part of our best practices protocol since the presence of small hive beetles directly impacts hive health.

Three years ago we started testing the efficacy of a third strain of nematode that we are now producing that targets the larval stage of ticks and other pest insects in the soil.

Biological Control of Ticks +

Check out the drop downs below each picture

to see research articles on Steinernema carpocapsae

Ticks are the main target pest but not the only ones

Steinernema Carpocapsae nematodes (SC) is most effective against flea larvae, ticks, ants, and caterpillars in lawns, garden soil, and under trees where larvae pupate. Nematodes are not dangerous for humans, animals or plants.

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Producing and applying nematodes for tick control

We started raising SC in the bee lab early this spring and now have several million ready to go. They should be applied at a time when there will be occasional rain to keep the soil moist but after the danger of deep freeze has passed. We use a designated backpack sprayer and pure water to mix and apply the nematodes as close to the earth as possible. Once the nematodes are in the soil they go to work within the first few days. Their population should increase throughout the season as long as the soil is kept moist.

If the soil dries out for an extended period or if it freezes the nematodes will need to be reapplied.

What does it cost?

There is a lot of work that goes into raising and applying these little buggers. For our current concierge clients and our hive nematode subscription clients we are offering this service at a rate of $250 per each ¼ acre.

Entomopathogenic Nematodes for the Biological Control of Insects

Nematodes as Beneficial Microbes

Ticks are the main target pest but not the only ones

Tick Articles

Flea Articles

Fly Articles

Cockroach Articles

Producing and applying nematodes for tick control

What does it cost?