Xtremehorticulture

Control Root-Eating Grubs Organically and Conventionally

Q. I found grubs in the dirt with my plants. I put some
Triazicide around the plants. Will this help?
A. Triazicide is a conventional insecticide, found at any
nursery or garden center, which is very effective at killing grubs. The major
advantage of conventional insecticides like this one is the residue or residual
left behind after the application. For those preferring organic methods, this
is also a major drawback.
            There
are organic alternatives to grub control which are very effective. These
include pyrethrum applied as a soil drench for an immediate kill, milky spore
bacterium and beneficial nematodes. Milky spore bacterium and beneficial
nematodes also give you long-term plant protection from grubs.
            In your
case, you need something to kill the grubs. Once you kill the grubs, it may be
no longer necessary for a product like Triazicide to hang around in the soil.
            A
residual product like Triazicide becomes important when protecting valuable plants
from an infestation which may be imminent. In cases such as these, mark the
calendar when the insect threat might occur and apply this type of product two
weeks to a month before this date.
            I would
not use this product around food crops but lawns and ornamentals are more
suitable. But always read and understand the methods of application stated on
the label.
            Triazicide
comes in several different formulations (liquid concentrate, granules, ready to
use liquid, etc.) and each formulation is applied a little bit differently.
Basically the poison is applied to the soil surface and water is used to wash
this poison to where the grubs are actively feeding. Applying too much water
can move the product beyond the area where it is needed.
            Manufacturers
want you to be successful with their products so you will use them again and
recommend them to others. They try to provide the best information possible so
that you are successful.
            Be
cautious around your outside pets like dogs and cats since any insecticide,
organic or
conventional, moves easily from the soil surface, through the pads
of their feet and into their body. I would not let them walk in the area until
the surface where it was applied is totally dry.

4 thoughts on “Control Root-Eating Grubs Organically and Conventionally”

  1. Hi Bob, I have been looking for that Milky Spore product but can't seem to find it anywhere in Las Vegas. Do you know of a local supplier? I did find it on-line, but it doesn't make sense to me to pay shipping for a 20lbs bag. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks…Joe

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