Dovebugs - Vine Weevil larvae and Chafer grub predators    

Your Dovebugs vine weevil larvae and chafer grub control pack contains predatory nematodes to give you good control.  Apply the nematodes as soon as you see the first signs of vine weevil larvae damage to the plant root or crown.  These nematodes can be used outside, but lower soil temperatures and an unrestricted root zone may reduce control.   One pack is sufficient to treat a greenhouse or conservatory up to 100ft² (12ft x 8ft) or 10m² (4m x 2.5m).  If you have used any pesticides in your greenhouse/conservatory, other than insecticidal soap, prior to introduction, we recommend that you wait 4 weeks to avoid any problems.  Do not store Dovebugs in a refrigerator or freezer.  Apply them as soon as you receive the packages.   Remember that biological control works on the principle of using natural enemies, thus the presence of the pest in small quantities is essential for the predator to survive.  A minimum day temperature of 14°C (58°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F) is needed for the predator so you would normally apply them during the months of April through to September.

The parasitic nematode Steinernema swims in the water film that surrounds soil and compost particles.  It is small and cannot be seen clearly with the naked eye.  The nematode carries bacteria which infects the vine weevil larvae, killing them within 48 hours.  Around 1,500 eggs are laid inside each larvae, a small proportion of which ultimately emerge to reinfect other larvae.  Infected larvae can be identified by a light brown to red discolouring rather than the usual distinctive, milky white larvae.

Remove the contents of the pack and place it in a watering can or bucket filled with 4.5 litres (1 gallon) of water at no more than 20°C (68°F).  Stir the water several times to ensure that the nematodes are distributed into the water.  The water and nematodes should be kept agitated and drenched into the pots where the vine weevil are.  Use up the solution within 3 hours of mixing and apply during morning or evening or when the sky is overcast, as they are sensitive to ultra violet rays from the sun.  You can also add the water to no more than 200 litres of compost prior to potting so that plants are potted into a compost already containing nematodes.  Do not store the compost for more than 3 weeks and remember to keep it above 10°C and below 30°C.   Do not allow plants to dry out or the compost to rise above 30°C or the nematodes will be damaged.  Normal liquid feeding will not harm your Dovebugs.

Further supplies can be obtained from your local garden centre. If you need any technical help or advice on Dovebugs, you can contact us direct at: