Nematodes: the Natural Solution Against Soil Pests on Your Plants
There are pests you never see — because they act beneath the surface, in the potting mix of your plants. Thrips larvae, sciarids (fungus gnats) and certain mealybugs spend part of their life cycle in the soil, sheltered from sprays and conventional foliar treatments. That is where beneficial nematodes come in.
What is a nematode?
Nematodes are microscopic worms naturally present in healthy soils. Certain species, known as entomopathogenic, are natural predators of the larvae of pest insects. Completely harmless to humans, animals and plants — 100% natural and suitable for organic farming.
The species used in our Jungle Buddies is Steinernema feltiae, one of the most effective against houseplant pests.
How do they work?
- You apply them by watering the potting mix with the diluted solution
- They actively search for pest larvae in the soil
- They enter the larva and release a bacterium that eliminates it within 24 to 48 hours
- They reproduce and continue their protective action for several weeks
Unlike chemical insecticides, nematodes do not create resistance and have no impact on beneficial insects or earthworms.
Which pests are they effective against?
- Thrips — the larvae drop into the soil to pupate: that is where the nematodes eliminate them
- Fungus gnats (sciarids) — their larvae attack the roots directly
- Mealybugs — action on the larval stages present in the substrate
Our Jungle Buddies: 2 sizes
🌱 Buddies – Mini size (1 to 3 plants) — €9.90
The ideal size if you have one or two plants to treat. Buddies mini size — for a targeted intervention on a single plant. Results in 24-48 hours.
🌳 Jungle Buddies – Standard size (6 to 12 plants) — €16.90
For larger collections, Jungle Buddies standard covers 6 to 12 plants. The most economical size for treating a whole collection in a single application.
How to use them
- Take the sachet out of the refrigerator and let it come back to room temperature
- Dilute in 0.5 to 2 litres of room-temperature water (never hot water)
- Water the potting mix of your plants evenly
- Apply in the evening or in overcast weather (protects the nematodes from direct light)
- Keep the potting mix damp for 2-3 days after application
FAQ: nematodes
Do nematodes replace foliar treatments?
No, they are complementary. Nematodes treat the soil, while foliar treatments (neem oil, black soap) treat the adults on the leaves. For a thrips infestation, combine the two to act at every stage.
How long do nematodes stay active?
In damp potting mix at a good temperature, nematodes stay active for 3 to 6 weeks. Repeat the treatment after 4-6 weeks if necessary.