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Visitors to the Harrogate Spring Flower Show (24-27 April) flocked to the Nemaslug stand to see nematodes at work
attacking slugs. The bright and bold stand featured a central viewing area where visitors could see the nematodes through
the special magnifiers.
“It really helped people to understand how Nemaslug works in conjunction with nature to protect plants from slugs,” said
Sue Gibb, Becker Underwood’s customer services manager. “We could really show people the difference between plants
protected by Nemaslug and those not.”
A new free pest poster was also in great demand. To download a copy, click here.
[top]
Nematodes on Show
There's a new and very visual attraction on the show circuit this year - see slugs being attacked by nematodes! Becker
Underwood, the world's largest producer of beneficial nematodes and maker of Nemaslug slug killer, is exhibiting at
various shows this year. You can actually see the power of nematodes using the high powered magnifiers to view the tiny
creatures attacking slugs, crawling over them.
Show
Stand
When
Where
Opening Times
Harrogate Spring
Flower Show
S50
24 - 27 April
2008
Great Yorkshire Showground
09:30 to 17:30
Malvern Spring
Gardening Show
GSP/333
8 - 11 May
2008
The Malvern Show Ground
09:00 to 18:00
BBC Gardeners'
World Live
G298
11 - 15 June
2008
NEC Birmingham
09:00 to 18:00
RHS Hampton Court
B/9
8 - 13 July
Hampton Court Palace
10:00 to 19:30
RHS Tatton Park
D/120
23 – 27 July
2008
Tatton Park, near Knutsford
10:00 to 18:30
To download our FREE pest poster, available at the shows, click here.
[top]
Natural versus chemical
The natural versus chemical approach to gardening has exponents on both sides claiming superiority and home gardeners are
bombarded with information through articles and adverts. Safety has become a major issue for many people. Chemical
manufacturers claim that their products are safe “when used as directed” and issue precautions on their packs. Here are
some prime examples:
However, it is when chemical products are not used or stored as directed that problems occur – and how many people really
follow the precautions and recommendations as strictly as they should? For example, there have been incidences of pets
dying after eating stored slug pellets. Wouldn’t it be simpler and safer to use alternative products that don’t have these
precautions attached to them?
In any event, do you want to put chemicals on such sensitive areas as lawns, where children and pets love to play?
Chemicals in the flowerbeds is one thing, but quite another on the lawn which you use and is a substantial part of your
garden. Especially when there are effective alternatives.
You will have noticed that Nemasys products are not accompanied by such precautions. This is precisely because they are
safe for children, pets and wildlife. Indeed they are so safe that the pack says to store it in the fridge – to keep the
nematodes in fine fettle until they are used in the garden before the expiry date.
For your lawn, Nemasys Leather Jacket Killer and Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer are established solutions that are readily
available, along with Nemaslug and Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer to protect valuable plants.
Bio® is a registered trademark of Bayer Crop Science. Slug Clear™ is a trademark of The Scotts Company and its
affiliates. Provado® is a registered trademark of Bayer AG. doff™ Slug Killer is a trade mark of Doff.
[top]
New, quicker application
Also new for 2007 - simplified application instructions for all products, making it even quicker and easier to apply.
Gardeners now have the choice of applying by watering can using the new quick 2-step approach or by using a recommended
hose end feeder. Becker Underwood has also re-designed the packaging to meet the latest postal regulations on size and
added striking new images.
Nematode sales continue to increase as more and more gardeners find out how effective they are. With increasing concerns
over safety, especially on food crops and on lawns where children and pets play, people appreciate that Nemaslug and
Nemasys products are safe for children, pets and wildlife.
To apply with a hose end feeder, Becker Underwood recommends either the Phostrogen™ Handy Feeder or the Miracle-Gro™
Feeder. Full instructions on applying with a feeder can be found at
www.nemasysinfo.com.
[top]
World wide web shows the power of Nematodes
We are often asked “how do nematodes work?” So now, there’s a new free game on the internet at
www.sluginvaders.com that demonstrates, in a light hearted and
fun way, that nematodes seek out and destroy slugs. We will be monitoring the hits on the website so it will be
interesting to see how many people play the game over the coming months. Try it and pass it on. In this edition of
Nemasys News we tell you all about the new developments in Nemasys products plus we feature stories of school children’s
experiences of using nematodes. We also have a new free internet game and website that have been designed to show everyone
how safe and effective the products are.
In addition, there’s a new website www.safegardens4u.co.uk
that shows how safe and easy nematodes are to apply. So for the Nemasys pest control range, comprising brand leader
Nemaslug, Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer, Leatherjacket Killer and Chafer Grub Killer, there’s lots of news in 2007!
“We wanted more people, especially not so keen gardeners, to know about nematodes and how they worked,” says Becker
Underwood’s European general manager, Dr. Graeme Gowling. “www.sluginvaders.com
is a fun game that shows everyone how nematodes kill slugs. The game will appeal to adults and children, gardeners and
non-gardeners alike. It’s based on the old space invaders game, which is seeing a resurgence in popularity. Your highest
score is shown, so you can go back time and again to see if you can beat it. The bright and cheerful new website
www.safegardens4u.co.uk complements the existing
www.nemasysinfo.com website and highlights the safety benefits
of using nematodes to kill slugs, vine weevil, chafer grubs and leatherjackets. It is an animated site where you can
click on different parts of two gardens to see what happens when you apply various products.”
[top]
VAT increase
Becker Underwood, the Littlehampton, West Sussex nematode producer, is ready to increase production capacity yet further
as another huge production fermenter is being installed in their factory. The fermenter is the second 20,000 litre vat to
be installed and increases the factory’s capacity substantially. Becker Underwood is already the largest producer of
nematodes in the world and now they are even bigger.
“The increase in the demand for Nemaslug has necessitated the expansion of our production capacity,” says Dr. Graeme
Gowling, head of Becker Underwood’s European operations. “The increasing demand for Nemaslug and the new fermenter has
enabled us to drop our recommended retail price to the home and garden market by up to 20%. This is good news for people
who want to control slugs with nematodes.”
The new fermenter was custom built by a specialist engineering company.
[top]
HDRA gets gold at Chelsea
STOP PRESS
The organic gardening organisation, HDRA’s first garden at Chelsea designed by Rebeca Warren, a garden designer and
mother from Kent, sponsored by Nemasys pest controls, won a gold. Everybody involved with the exhibit, HDRA, Becker
Underwood and Duchy Originals were delighted with the achievement.
[top]
HDRA makes children stars of show at Chelsea
HDRA, the organic organisation, will make pupils involved in its successful schools organic gardening scheme the VIP
visitors at its first garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Children from St Gabriel’s C of E Primary School, Pimlico, will be amongst the first to explore the HDRA Children’s
Organic Adventure Garden on Monday, May 24.
Sponsored by Nemasys, natural pest controls for gardeners that are safe for children, and Duchy Originals, one of the
UK’s leading organic food brands, the Children’s Organic Adventure Garden will bring together fun, learning and involvement
in the garden for young people.
The pupils from St Gabriel’s have been taking part in the Duchy Originals HDRA Organic Gardens for Schools initiative,
which encourages children to grow their own food. This innovative project has grown rapidly, with 825 schools across the
UK now taking part.
Dr Susan Kay-Williams, Chief Executive of HDRA, says: “Much has been said recently about child health. HDRA’s organic
adventure garden will show how children can enjoy being actively involved in producing their own food, as well as showing
the possibilities for imaginative play.”
The Children’s Organic Adventure Garden will show visiting adults the key ingredients for inspiring the imaginations of
junior gardeners. Youngsters love having their own special spaces to explore, watching in wonder as seeds flourish into
plants and getting close-up to creepy crawlies.
The garden has been designed by Rebecca Warren, herself a mother of two boys, and it is worked around a spiral ‘snail
shell’ design. Visitors will experience the garden’s enchanting atmosphere, with its mysterious willow tunnel and a magical
centrepiece featuring broomsticks and a witch’s cauldron. They will also be able to peer through portholes to examine the
wildlife lurking in a woodpile, by a pond and inside a wonderful wormery.
The vegetables chosen are a selection of those grown by participants in the Duchy Originals HDRA Organic Gardens for
Schools project. Our research shows that where children have grown their own vegetables, they are more likely to want to
eat them.
Sarah Carrier, a teacher from St Gabriel’s C of E Primary School, says: “Our pupils are thrilled to be the special guests
at HDRA’s Children’s Organic Adventure Garden. They are so excited – after learning how to grow their own plants they
cannot wait to visit the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.”
The garden will also feature a garden seat from the Duchy Collection, a range of outdoor furniture made from sustainable,
native hardwood, and manufactured by local craftsmen in Herefordshire. The Nemasys range of natural pest controls, uses
nematodes that are safe for children, pets and wildlife and so are ideal and effective to use in all gardens including
on edible crops.
HDRA wants to give as many people as possible, especially children, a chance to explore the children’s garden, so it
will be moved to Yalding Organic Gardens, its site in Kent, after the Chelsea show.
[top]
A new way to apply Nemasys
Recently completed trials have shown that Nemasys can be successfully and easily applied using a garden feeder – great
news for gardeners fighting slugs, vine weevil, chafer grubs and leather jackets in 2004!
Using a quality garden feeder, such as the Phostrogen® handy feeder, connected to a garden hose, means you can achieve an
efficient and even application as well as making sure the nematodes are washed into the soil, especially important for
lawn products.
So now you can apply nematodes by watering can or using a garden hose system – whichever you find more convenient. Our
step-by-step guide shows how easy it is. These instructions are applicable to all pack sizes up to 100m2 and products in
the Nemasys Home & Garden range. However, please note the different application timings in point 4 when applying to lawns.
Miracle-Gro is a registered trademark of The Scotts Company.
Nemasys and Nemaslug are registered trademarks of Becker Underwood. NB: When applying to pots it is still better to use the watering can method as it would be difficult to judge the area and timing. [top] Chemicals out, so where next? As more chemicals are taken out of circulation and the public increasingly demands more environmentally friendly solutions, biological pest controls are set to become gardeners’ control of choice for the future, according to Dr. Graeme Gowling, general manager of Becker Underwood Europe, which produces the Nemasys range of nematode based pest controls. “Gardeners have relied on chemical pest controls for decades and are now seeing a reduction of such products on garden centre shelves,” says Dr Gowling. “The alternative methods are here and widely available through mail order and on the Internet and our challenge is to get more and more people using them.” “Our nematode products are powerful and proven, but because they don’t sit on a garden centre shelf, many would be customers do not currently see them,” explains Dr. Graeme Gowling. “As a result, less cost-effective solutions are leading to gardeners paying more than they need to.” “Barrier methods, like slug pellets, can detract from the overall look of the plants, whereas a nematode solution goes directly into the soil to give lasting protection. Currently, live pest control products, such as the nematodes in our Nemasys range, are only available by mail order, including through garden centres using card systems. One area where chemicals have been banned for home use is the control of chafer grubs and leatherjackets and right now is the time to be on your guard. From August to October chafer grubs and leatherjackets can wreak havoc on well cared for turf and lawns, bringing misery to proud gardeners across the land. By using Nemasys, which is safe for children, pets and wildlife, the gardener adds more nematodes to the soil so that there are enough of them to attack the target pest. The nematodes used are naturally occurring organisms that are already present in the soil, but their numbers are insufficient to deal with an infestation. After a period of time the number of nematodes falls back to the background level of the environment, their food source having been eliminated. Chafer beetles emerge from the lawn in May/June. They lay their eggs, which hatch into grubs (which are creamy coloured and up to 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) in length, have legs and a distinctive reddish brown head) that feed on the grass roots. They then lie dormant deep in the soil before moving to the surface in the spring to emerge as beetles again. There is no chemical control for chafer grubs and if the chafer's life cycle is not broken re-infestation occurs and the problem gets progressively worse. The nematodes (Heterorhabditis megidis) seek out the chafer grubs and attack the pest by entering natural body openings. Once inside, they release bacteria that stops the pest from feeding, quickly killing the pest. They do not stop there. The nematodes reproduce inside the dead pest and release a new generation of hungry infective nematodes, which disperse and search for further prey. You can treat affected areas with Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer in August/September, which is when the grubs are active. Leatherjackets are the larval stage of the crane fly or daddy-long-legs. Leatherjacket larvae are about 2.5cm (1" long), greyish black in colour, legless and with no distinct head. In summer leatherjackets pupate. In August they start to lay eggs re-infesting lawns. Within two weeks eggs hatch. The young start to feed, continuing throughout winter, ready to gorge on grass roots in spring. Grass growth slows and yellow patches appear. Grass is easily pulled up, with little or no root growth. In August gardeners may see clouds of daddy-long-legs emerging from lawns in the early morning and this, as well as the listed damage, is a sure sign of leatherjacket infestation. Starlings peck at the grass in an attempt to eat the grubs and wildlife, such as foxes and badgers, can also create a lot of damage as they dig up your lawn in search of grubs for food. Apply Nemasys Leather Jacket Killer (which contains the nematode Steinernema feltiae) when the young leatherjackets are active in the soil, this is typically late August through to the end of October. When you start to see the adult daddy-long-legs in your garden (towards the end of August) you will know that in a few days they will be laying eggs. These will hatch quickly, therefore, aim to apply about a week to two weeks after you see the adults. Apply Nemasys to moist lawns and then water the nematodes in well so that they are washed through the grass and into the soil to reach the roots where the chafer grubs or leatherjackets will be. Keep the lawn well watered for at least two weeks after to make sure the lawn does not dry out. All nematode products are found naturally in the soils of the country within which they are sold. Using nematode products artificially boosts the number of nematodes in an area where there is a large number of pests. This helps to reduce the number of pests insects in that area. Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer and Nemasys Leather Jacket Killer come in pack sizes to meet the varying needs of gardeners:
[top]
The garden centres' Nemasys
Becker Underwood's new Nemasys range of biological pest controls will be available to gardeners in over 1,000 retail
outlets this year. Of the 1,000 outlets, 500 are hardware stores and 500 are garden centres including branches of
Hilliers, Notcutts, Squires and Wyevale.
The nematode-based products to kill slugs, vine weevil, leatherjackets and chafer grubs and are the key products of Just
Green of Burnham on Sea's revolutionary new Natural Born Killer range. This innovation takes natural pest control right
to garden centre's point of sale.
"Just Green trialed the point of sale in garden centres last year and this year they are building on that success," says
Dr. Graeme Gowling, general manager of Becker Underwood's nematode division. "Our new Nemasys range, like other biological
pest controls, is available direct from mail order companies but we want garden centre customers to be reminded of these
natural alternatives to chemicals in-store. Gardeners will now be able to see the advantages of biological controls more
easily."
Common pests like slugs, vine weevil, whitefly, greenfly, caterpillars, chafer grubs and spider mite have all been
controlled naturally and organically in commercial nurseries for years, but the amateur gardener has only been able to
find out about them by reading books and gardening magazines and then seeking out a mail order company.
With Just Green's eye-catching Natural Born Killers display unit gardeners will be reminded that they have safe
alternatives to chemicals. So simple to use, gardeners will be able to match the pest they want to control with the pest
control cards, fill in their address on the product card, and present it to the cashier at the till. Within 10 days Just
Green will deliver fresh product direct to the customer's door. All products come with clear user instructions and
customers will be able to choose from single treatment products or programme products that will treat pests efficiently
and economically over a number of weeks.
Organic pest controls work by targeting pests with their natural enemies. These come in the form of predators, parasites
and bacteria. To control slugs, vine weevil, leather jackets or chaffer grubs for instance the gardener would use
nematodes. Already present in the soil Nemaslug and Nemasys introduce extra nematodes to combat the pests and once their
job is complete the nematodes die back to their natural numbers. The process is effective, safe to use, is not harmful to
children, pets or wildlife.
To find out more and order, contact Just Green, Unit 14 Springfield Road, Springfield Industrial Estate, Burnham on
Crouch, Essex, CM0 8AU. Tel: 01621 785088. www.just-green.com
[top]
New Nematode range unveiled at open day
Becker Underwood's new range of nematode pest control products for the home and garden market, under the brand name
Nemasys, were unveiled recently to journalists and customers at an open day held at the Littlehampton (West Sussex)
production facility.
The new look Nemasys range includes a new nematode for Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer, which operates at lower temperatures,
giving it an extended outdoor season, together with new products that target chafer grubs and leatherjackets. The new
look Nemasys range will still be spearheaded by Nemaslug, the top selling nematode slug killer that is finding favour
with an increasing number of gardeners throughout the UK.
The open day included presentations on pests and pest control by Andrew Halstead of the RHS and David Glen, formerly of
Long Ashton Research Station, as well as a tour of the state of the art nematode production facility.
Dr Graeme Gowling, general manager of Becker Underwood's European operations said, "This is an exciting time in the
development and use of nematode products. As more people question the use of chemicals in the garden and gardeners opt
to use more natural pest control products, we now have the answer to four key garden pests."
The nematodes in the Nemasys range are natural enemies of the target pest and are an effective, natural biological control
method for use both indoors and outside.
Safety for pets and wildlife was highlighted at the open day by Leigh Selway of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.
Referring to a recent case where a guide dog died after eating slug pellets, Leigh said, "We have first hand experience of
the devastating effect that slug pellets can have on the health of our dogs. People do not always follow instructions and
accidents will happen but with pet safe, natural alternatives available, future deaths can be easily avoided."
The Nemasys range comes in different pack sizes to meet the varying needs of gardeners: David Glen, whose team at Long
Ashton Research Station discovered the nematode used in Nemaslug, said, "Slug-parasitic nematodes provide effective and
selective slug control under a wide range of conditions. Nematodes can persist in the soil for at least six weeks after
application."
[top]
The Apuldram Centre uses Nematodes
Adam Reynolds of the Apuldram Centre in Apuldram Lane, Fishbourne is responsible for applying Littlehampton-based Becker
Underwood's products, Nemaslug and Nemasys, killers of slugs and vine weevil respectively to the centre's plants and
produce that they sell to the public.
Says horticultural instructor, Richard Manning, "When Becker Underwood approached us to endorse their products in Garden
Answers we were only too happy to help. Adam had no hesitation in volunteering to take part in the photo shoot. In fact
he even came in on his day off."
The Apuldram Centre, which uses as few chemicals as possible in growing plants, has been using Nemaslug and Nemasys since
last year to combat slugs and vine weevil and they have noticed a marked change in damage to their crops. Says Richard,
"Last year the main plants affected by vine weevil were primulas and mint and this year they are excellent thanks to
Nemasys."
Located in Apuldram Lane, Fishbourne, the centre's objective is to provide meaningful day care to adults who have
learning disabilities with the emphasis on having a job for which they receive a very modest salary. The centre offers
horticultural work, both on site and out on contract gardening jobs, plus domestic work, which results in the production
of their own cakes, jams, marmalade for the on site shop. The horticultural side is very active, proving bedding plants,
cut flowers, herb plants, shrubs and herbaceous plants. Apuldram also produce a large range of vegetables and salad
products throughout the year.
"We used these two products because they are both effective and safe to use," adds Richard.
The nematodes in Nemasys are natural enemies of the vine weevil larvae and are an effective, natural biological control
method for use both indoors and outside.
Vine weevil larvae attack the roots of the plant, so a drench of nematodes on the garden during August or September
(mid-October if the weather is mild whilst the soil temperature is above 12C (54F)) will kill the larvae, without posing
any risk to pets, wildlife or children. For indoor plants or greenhouses, nematodes can be applied at any time.
Nemasys is a unique natural product - the beneficial nematodes it contains are natural enemies of vine weevil - and
nothing else. These microscopic worms are already present in the soil in small numbers. Nemasys adds more into the soil
and once their work is completed they die back to natural background numbers. As well as being highly effective the
nematodes are not harmful to children, pets and wildlife, leave no chemical residues in the soil and will never become
pests themselves.
[top]
School children on pest control
Young gardeners at Georgian Gardens Community County Primary School in Rustington are learning all about biological pest
control as a safe means of protecting their plants, by using nematodes (Nemaslug to kill slugs and Nemasys to kill vine
weevil) and watching a recent Blue Peter programme that told them just how nematodes worked.
"We had an awful problem with both slugs and vine weevil last year and so we had to do something, but without using slug
pellets or chemicals," said teacher, Deirdre Carolin who is responsible for the young gardeners. "We are glad to report
that we have not had a sighting of either a slug or vine weevil this year since using nematodes, which means that all our
plants are in tact. When we lose plants it makes the children unhappy and so nematodes work for us."
When Sue Gibb of Becker Underwood, the Littlehampton based company that produces the nematode products visited the
children to see how well their plants were doing they gleefully told her about the Blue Peter programme and how the
people who looked after the Blue Peter Garden used nematodes to control slugs. They told her how small the nematodes
were and how they worked.
"The children were very knowledgeable about the nematodes and were clearly delighted that the slimy slugs and evil
weevils had been dealt with," added Sue Gibb. "It's great to see their enthusiasm and to know that our products are
helping them in their garden."
[top]
Journalists and horticulturalists see where 50 trillion Nematodes are produced each year
Nearly one hundred journalists and horticulturalists descended on the largest nematode production facility in the world,
at Becker Underwood in Littlehampton, West Sussex, yesterday (Tuesday 28th February) to hear and see how nematodes are
being successfully used in pest control. Scientific research, first hand commercial experience and tours of the facility
and a nearby herb grower formed the core of the day, showing how nematodes were being used and the benefits to home and
garden users.
Dr. Albert Ester of PPO (Applied Plant Research), Lelystad, Holland shared his research results on different forms of
pest control and concluded that nematodes, as in Nemaslug, were effective and economical in use. He also reported on the
withdrawal of slug pellets in Holland, where Mesurol/Draza (containing methiocarb) had been banned since January 2003 and
metaldehyde pellets would not be allowed after 2006.
“In addition, there are concerns about leaching of the active ingredient in slug pellets into the groundwater” said Dr
Ester.
Dr. Ester explained how successful Dutch growers had been using Nemaslug. Applying slug control in commercial situations
is a lengthy business but Dr. Ester said that it was much easier to apply nematodes because they only needed to be applied
three times a season whereas for slug pellets they had to use 10 applications per season on Brussels sprouts. Enhanced
results had also been achieved when Nemaslug was applied early in the season.
David Morris of Golden Plain Marketing followed Dr. Ester’s presentation by showing the audience how successful his
company was at using nematodes to protect that all time favourite of slugs, the lettuce. With a zero tolerance policy on
slug damage and customers including the biggest supermarkets in the UK, Nemaslug had become the clear choice slug control.
Dr Graeme Gowling, European general manager for Becker Underwood added, “It is clear that Nemaslug is becoming the slug
control of choice in many commercial situation. As well as being highly effective, it is economical in use and avoids the
environmental disadvantages of using chemicals.”
Dr Gowling also explained how homeowners across the UK were now using Nemaslug and other nematode products to control
high profile garden pest such as slugs and vine weevils. During questions it became clear that even greater results could
be achieved when applied early in the season, before the slugs had a chance to attack the crops.
As well as the presentations, visitors toured the impressive nematode plant that produces 50 trillion nematodes a year,
which are shipped worldwide and nearby organic herb grower, VHB Humber, which produces 18m pot herbs for major
supermarkets in the UK, together with other salad crops. The company uses biological pest control using Nemasys products
produced by Becker Underwood.
“Nemaslug is proven to be effective. You just have to look at the success of the commercial growers to see that,”
concluded Dr Gowling. “It seems to me only a matter of time before the rest of Europe follows the Dutch lead and bans
metaldehyde slug pellets.”
[top]
Nothing but the best in gardening for Arundel Castle
As part of their organic gardening regime to grow the best vegetables for Arundel Castle’s household dining tables, head
gardener Gerry Kelsey and assistant head gardener, Isobel McKinley, use nematodes in their natural pest control regime.
Gardening with nature, Isobel introduces millions more nematodes to combat slugs. When they have done their job the
nematodes then die back to their natural numbers.
Isobel had quite a problem with slugs and snails in the cold frames where she grows her salad crops, but by using
nematodes she didn’t have so many lacey leaves and she noticed that the snails stayed away.
Being down the road from nematode producer, Becker Underwood, Isobel often works with the company’s scientists to see how
nematodes can help her pest control. Recently she took part in a successful trial to control scale insects.
“We grow organic fruit and vegetables for the household in just over an acre of reclaimed walled garden,” says Isobel,
“and as Her Grace would like to be completely organic throughout the estate, we are always looking at ways to achieve her
objective.”
The vegetable garden was reclaimed from an unused area in 1994 and since that time it has evolved and developed into a
beautiful part of Arundel Castle’s grounds. In its walled and enclosed garden on top of Arundel hill opposite the
cathedral, it is almost a secret garden. Growing in a four year cycle, they decide what kind of vegetables they should
grow in consultation with the Castle’s chef and they also take care to make sure the gardens are visually appealing to
their many thousands of visitors. Isobel uses various biological controls and companion planting as well as introducing
hedgehogs and encouraging natural predators. This is common sense organic gardening without chemicals.
[top]
Chelsea silver
A stand sponsored by Becker Underwood, the Littlehampton producer of nematodes under the Nemaslug and Nemasys branding,
has scooped a silver medal at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. Becker Underwood sponsored the organic organisation, HDRA’s,
stand called ‘Organic Food for All’ in the Life Long Learning section at the show.
Celebrity chef James Martin launched the display. The ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’ star was keen to support HDRA’s Organic Food
for All exhibit/project because he is a strong believer in organic food. The project aims to train 100 mentors across the
UK to help complete beginners have a go at growing their own vegetables and fruit.
This year’s exhibit, which was designed by Rebecca Warren, a HDRA volunteer from Kent, portrays how people from all walks
of life can learn how to grow their own fresh food. Three large windows demonstrate what can be achieved at different
levels – by beginners, experienced gardeners acting as mentors and thriving community projects.
Says Becker Underwood’s European general manager, Dr. Graeme Gowling, “To be associated with HDRA winning medals at
Chelsea is wonderful. It is a fantastic achievement on their part and we are proud to be sponsoring them.”
“Last year Nemasys sponsored HDRA with their award-winning first ever garden at Chelsea,’ says Graeme, “and as our
products support organic gardening and the work of HDRA, we had no hesitation in supporting them at Chelsea again this
year.”
[top]
Applying Your Nematodes | Buy products | News | How nematode products are made | Quality & care | Links | About us | Contact us
News archives - General
- Press Information
- Nematodes a Hit at Harrogate
- Nematodes on Show
- Natural versus chemical
- New, quicker application
- World wide web shows the power of Nematodes
- VAT increase
- HDRA gets gold at Chelsea
- HDRA makes children stars of show at Chelsea
- A new way to apply Nemasys
- Chemicals out, so where next?
- The garden centres' Nemasys
- New Nematode range unveiled at open day
- The Apuldram Centre uses Nematodes
- School children on pest control
- Journalists and horticulturalists see where 50 trillion Nematodes are produced each year
- Nothing but the best in gardening for Arundel Castle
- Chelsea silver
Visitors to the Harrogate Spring Flower Show (24-27 April) flocked to the Nemaslug stand to see nematodes at work
attacking slugs. The bright and bold stand featured a central viewing area where visitors could see the nematodes through
the special magnifiers.
“It really helped people to understand how Nemaslug works in conjunction with nature to protect plants from slugs,” said
Sue Gibb, Becker Underwood’s customer services manager. “We could really show people the difference between plants
protected by Nemaslug and those not.”
A new free pest poster was also in great demand. To download a copy, click here.
[top]
Nematodes on Show
There's a new and very visual attraction on the show circuit this year - see slugs being attacked by nematodes! Becker
Underwood, the world's largest producer of beneficial nematodes and maker of Nemaslug slug killer, is exhibiting at
various shows this year. You can actually see the power of nematodes using the high powered magnifiers to view the tiny
creatures attacking slugs, crawling over them.
Flower Show
2008
Gardening Show
2008
World Live
2008
2008
- Warning: This product contains Metaldehyde which can kill if eaten. KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN AND PETS BOTH IN STORAGE AND IN USE (Bio® Slug Mini-Pellets)
- DANGEROUS TO PETS. KEEP IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER. WASH HANDS AFTER USE (Slug Clear™ Advanced Pellets)
- Scatter the pellets to fall 75-100 mm (3-4”) apart (doff™ Slug Killer)
- Do not use on edible plants (Provado® Vine Weevil Killer2)
- For use on houeplants and container grown ornamental garden plants (Provado® Vine Weevil Killer2). The point to note here is that the product is not recommended for use on open ground.
- Once dry, the treated areas are perfectly OK for children and pets to use (extract from advert for Provado® Lawn Grub Killer - implying that children and pets must be excluded during application and until the area is dry).
However, it is when chemical products are not used or stored as directed that problems occur – and how many people really
follow the precautions and recommendations as strictly as they should? For example, there have been incidences of pets
dying after eating stored slug pellets. Wouldn’t it be simpler and safer to use alternative products that don’t have these
precautions attached to them?
In any event, do you want to put chemicals on such sensitive areas as lawns, where children and pets love to play?
Chemicals in the flowerbeds is one thing, but quite another on the lawn which you use and is a substantial part of your
garden. Especially when there are effective alternatives.
You will have noticed that Nemasys products are not accompanied by such precautions. This is precisely because they are
safe for children, pets and wildlife. Indeed they are so safe that the pack says to store it in the fridge – to keep the
nematodes in fine fettle until they are used in the garden before the expiry date.
For your lawn, Nemasys Leather Jacket Killer and Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer are established solutions that are readily
available, along with Nemaslug and Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer to protect valuable plants.
Bio® is a registered trademark of Bayer Crop Science. Slug Clear™ is a trademark of The Scotts Company and its
affiliates. Provado® is a registered trademark of Bayer AG. doff™ Slug Killer is a trade mark of Doff.
[top]
New, quicker application
Also new for 2007 - simplified application instructions for all products, making it even quicker and easier to apply.
Gardeners now have the choice of applying by watering can using the new quick 2-step approach or by using a recommended
hose end feeder. Becker Underwood has also re-designed the packaging to meet the latest postal regulations on size and
added striking new images.
Nematode sales continue to increase as more and more gardeners find out how effective they are. With increasing concerns
over safety, especially on food crops and on lawns where children and pets play, people appreciate that Nemaslug and
Nemasys products are safe for children, pets and wildlife.
To apply with a hose end feeder, Becker Underwood recommends either the Phostrogen™ Handy Feeder or the Miracle-Gro™
Feeder. Full instructions on applying with a feeder can be found at
www.nemasysinfo.com.
[top]
World wide web shows the power of Nematodes
We are often asked “how do nematodes work?” So now, there’s a new free game on the internet at
www.sluginvaders.com that demonstrates, in a light hearted and
fun way, that nematodes seek out and destroy slugs. We will be monitoring the hits on the website so it will be
interesting to see how many people play the game over the coming months. Try it and pass it on. In this edition of
Nemasys News we tell you all about the new developments in Nemasys products plus we feature stories of school children’s
experiences of using nematodes. We also have a new free internet game and website that have been designed to show everyone
how safe and effective the products are.
In addition, there’s a new website www.safegardens4u.co.uk
that shows how safe and easy nematodes are to apply. So for the Nemasys pest control range, comprising brand leader
Nemaslug, Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer, Leatherjacket Killer and Chafer Grub Killer, there’s lots of news in 2007!
“We wanted more people, especially not so keen gardeners, to know about nematodes and how they worked,” says Becker
Underwood’s European general manager, Dr. Graeme Gowling. “www.sluginvaders.com
is a fun game that shows everyone how nematodes kill slugs. The game will appeal to adults and children, gardeners and
non-gardeners alike. It’s based on the old space invaders game, which is seeing a resurgence in popularity. Your highest
score is shown, so you can go back time and again to see if you can beat it. The bright and cheerful new website
www.safegardens4u.co.uk complements the existing
www.nemasysinfo.com website and highlights the safety benefits
of using nematodes to kill slugs, vine weevil, chafer grubs and leatherjackets. It is an animated site where you can
click on different parts of two gardens to see what happens when you apply various products.”
[top]
VAT increase
Becker Underwood, the Littlehampton, West Sussex nematode producer, is ready to increase production capacity yet further
as another huge production fermenter is being installed in their factory. The fermenter is the second 20,000 litre vat to
be installed and increases the factory’s capacity substantially. Becker Underwood is already the largest producer of
nematodes in the world and now they are even bigger.
“The increase in the demand for Nemaslug has necessitated the expansion of our production capacity,” says Dr. Graeme
Gowling, head of Becker Underwood’s European operations. “The increasing demand for Nemaslug and the new fermenter has
enabled us to drop our recommended retail price to the home and garden market by up to 20%. This is good news for people
who want to control slugs with nematodes.”
The new fermenter was custom built by a specialist engineering company.
[top]
HDRA gets gold at Chelsea
STOP PRESS
The organic gardening organisation, HDRA’s first garden at Chelsea designed by Rebeca Warren, a garden designer and
mother from Kent, sponsored by Nemasys pest controls, won a gold. Everybody involved with the exhibit, HDRA, Becker
Underwood and Duchy Originals were delighted with the achievement.
[top]
HDRA makes children stars of show at Chelsea
HDRA, the organic organisation, will make pupils involved in its successful schools organic gardening scheme the VIP
visitors at its first garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
Children from St Gabriel’s C of E Primary School, Pimlico, will be amongst the first to explore the HDRA Children’s
Organic Adventure Garden on Monday, May 24.
Sponsored by Nemasys, natural pest controls for gardeners that are safe for children, and Duchy Originals, one of the
UK’s leading organic food brands, the Children’s Organic Adventure Garden will bring together fun, learning and involvement
in the garden for young people.
The pupils from St Gabriel’s have been taking part in the Duchy Originals HDRA Organic Gardens for Schools initiative,
which encourages children to grow their own food. This innovative project has grown rapidly, with 825 schools across the
UK now taking part.
Dr Susan Kay-Williams, Chief Executive of HDRA, says: “Much has been said recently about child health. HDRA’s organic
adventure garden will show how children can enjoy being actively involved in producing their own food, as well as showing
the possibilities for imaginative play.”
The Children’s Organic Adventure Garden will show visiting adults the key ingredients for inspiring the imaginations of
junior gardeners. Youngsters love having their own special spaces to explore, watching in wonder as seeds flourish into
plants and getting close-up to creepy crawlies.
The garden has been designed by Rebecca Warren, herself a mother of two boys, and it is worked around a spiral ‘snail
shell’ design. Visitors will experience the garden’s enchanting atmosphere, with its mysterious willow tunnel and a magical
centrepiece featuring broomsticks and a witch’s cauldron. They will also be able to peer through portholes to examine the
wildlife lurking in a woodpile, by a pond and inside a wonderful wormery.
The vegetables chosen are a selection of those grown by participants in the Duchy Originals HDRA Organic Gardens for
Schools project. Our research shows that where children have grown their own vegetables, they are more likely to want to
eat them.
Sarah Carrier, a teacher from St Gabriel’s C of E Primary School, says: “Our pupils are thrilled to be the special guests
at HDRA’s Children’s Organic Adventure Garden. They are so excited – after learning how to grow their own plants they
cannot wait to visit the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.”
The garden will also feature a garden seat from the Duchy Collection, a range of outdoor furniture made from sustainable,
native hardwood, and manufactured by local craftsmen in Herefordshire. The Nemasys range of natural pest controls, uses
nematodes that are safe for children, pets and wildlife and so are ideal and effective to use in all gardens including
on edible crops.
HDRA wants to give as many people as possible, especially children, a chance to explore the children’s garden, so it
will be moved to Yalding Organic Gardens, its site in Kent, after the Chelsea show.
[top]
A new way to apply Nemasys
Recently completed trials have shown that Nemasys can be successfully and easily applied using a garden feeder – great
news for gardeners fighting slugs, vine weevil, chafer grubs and leather jackets in 2004!
Using a quality garden feeder, such as the Phostrogen® handy feeder, connected to a garden hose, means you can achieve an
efficient and even application as well as making sure the nematodes are washed into the soil, especially important for
lawn products.
So now you can apply nematodes by watering can or using a garden hose system – whichever you find more convenient. Our
step-by-step guide shows how easy it is. These instructions are applicable to all pack sizes up to 100m2 and products in
the Nemasys Home & Garden range. However, please note the different application timings in point 4 when applying to lawns.
- Wash the feeder through with water to ensure it is clean.
- Add entire contents of the pack to the bowl of the feeder. Then fill the bowl with water and stir to mix thoroughly. Attach the hose.
- Taking care to keep the feeder in an upright position, apply evenly to the whole of the area for a timed period,
using a side-to-side motion to keep the nematodes well mixed. During this time most of the nematodes will have been
applied.
- Phostrogen Handy Feeder - for 8 minutes.
- Variable spray Miracle-Gro Feeder with spray set to ‘flat’ – for 5 minutes.
- Fixed spray Miracle-Gro Feeder – for 8 minutes.
- Treat the same area again for a further 8 minutes (or 16 minutes for lawn applications) to apply the remaining nematodes as well as to make sure they are adequately watered in. Applications to lawns require more water to ensure the nematodes are washed through the grass thatch.
- Adhering strictly to the application timings will ensure that any remaining colour in the bowl will be due to inert carrier only and that you have performed an even application.
- This new method provides a simple and effective application, however, it is important to follow the instructions exactly to obtain even coverage.
- Only the following high quality feeders are recommended for use with this method;
- Phostrogen® Handy Feeder.
- Miracle-Gro® Feeder.
Miracle-Gro is a registered trademark of The Scotts Company.
Nemasys and Nemaslug are registered trademarks of Becker Underwood. NB: When applying to pots it is still better to use the watering can method as it would be difficult to judge the area and timing. [top] Chemicals out, so where next? As more chemicals are taken out of circulation and the public increasingly demands more environmentally friendly solutions, biological pest controls are set to become gardeners’ control of choice for the future, according to Dr. Graeme Gowling, general manager of Becker Underwood Europe, which produces the Nemasys range of nematode based pest controls. “Gardeners have relied on chemical pest controls for decades and are now seeing a reduction of such products on garden centre shelves,” says Dr Gowling. “The alternative methods are here and widely available through mail order and on the Internet and our challenge is to get more and more people using them.” “Our nematode products are powerful and proven, but because they don’t sit on a garden centre shelf, many would be customers do not currently see them,” explains Dr. Graeme Gowling. “As a result, less cost-effective solutions are leading to gardeners paying more than they need to.” “Barrier methods, like slug pellets, can detract from the overall look of the plants, whereas a nematode solution goes directly into the soil to give lasting protection. Currently, live pest control products, such as the nematodes in our Nemasys range, are only available by mail order, including through garden centres using card systems. One area where chemicals have been banned for home use is the control of chafer grubs and leatherjackets and right now is the time to be on your guard. From August to October chafer grubs and leatherjackets can wreak havoc on well cared for turf and lawns, bringing misery to proud gardeners across the land. By using Nemasys, which is safe for children, pets and wildlife, the gardener adds more nematodes to the soil so that there are enough of them to attack the target pest. The nematodes used are naturally occurring organisms that are already present in the soil, but their numbers are insufficient to deal with an infestation. After a period of time the number of nematodes falls back to the background level of the environment, their food source having been eliminated. Chafer beetles emerge from the lawn in May/June. They lay their eggs, which hatch into grubs (which are creamy coloured and up to 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) in length, have legs and a distinctive reddish brown head) that feed on the grass roots. They then lie dormant deep in the soil before moving to the surface in the spring to emerge as beetles again. There is no chemical control for chafer grubs and if the chafer's life cycle is not broken re-infestation occurs and the problem gets progressively worse. The nematodes (Heterorhabditis megidis) seek out the chafer grubs and attack the pest by entering natural body openings. Once inside, they release bacteria that stops the pest from feeding, quickly killing the pest. They do not stop there. The nematodes reproduce inside the dead pest and release a new generation of hungry infective nematodes, which disperse and search for further prey. You can treat affected areas with Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer in August/September, which is when the grubs are active. Leatherjackets are the larval stage of the crane fly or daddy-long-legs. Leatherjacket larvae are about 2.5cm (1" long), greyish black in colour, legless and with no distinct head. In summer leatherjackets pupate. In August they start to lay eggs re-infesting lawns. Within two weeks eggs hatch. The young start to feed, continuing throughout winter, ready to gorge on grass roots in spring. Grass growth slows and yellow patches appear. Grass is easily pulled up, with little or no root growth. In August gardeners may see clouds of daddy-long-legs emerging from lawns in the early morning and this, as well as the listed damage, is a sure sign of leatherjacket infestation. Starlings peck at the grass in an attempt to eat the grubs and wildlife, such as foxes and badgers, can also create a lot of damage as they dig up your lawn in search of grubs for food. Apply Nemasys Leather Jacket Killer (which contains the nematode Steinernema feltiae) when the young leatherjackets are active in the soil, this is typically late August through to the end of October. When you start to see the adult daddy-long-legs in your garden (towards the end of August) you will know that in a few days they will be laying eggs. These will hatch quickly, therefore, aim to apply about a week to two weeks after you see the adults. Apply Nemasys to moist lawns and then water the nematodes in well so that they are washed through the grass and into the soil to reach the roots where the chafer grubs or leatherjackets will be. Keep the lawn well watered for at least two weeks after to make sure the lawn does not dry out. All nematode products are found naturally in the soils of the country within which they are sold. Using nematode products artificially boosts the number of nematodes in an area where there is a large number of pests. This helps to reduce the number of pests insects in that area. Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer and Nemasys Leather Jacket Killer come in pack sizes to meet the varying needs of gardeners:
| Product | Size |
| Nemasys Leatherjacket Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer | 20m2 |
Other Nemasys products: |
|
| Nemaslug Slug Killer | 40m2 |
| Nemaslug Slug Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Vine weevil Killer | 12m2 |
| Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer | 100m2 |
Becker Underwood's new Nemasys range of biological pest controls will be available to gardeners in over 1,000 retail
outlets this year. Of the 1,000 outlets, 500 are hardware stores and 500 are garden centres including branches of
Hilliers, Notcutts, Squires and Wyevale.
The nematode-based products to kill slugs, vine weevil, leatherjackets and chafer grubs and are the key products of Just
Green of Burnham on Sea's revolutionary new Natural Born Killer range. This innovation takes natural pest control right
to garden centre's point of sale.
"Just Green trialed the point of sale in garden centres last year and this year they are building on that success," says
Dr. Graeme Gowling, general manager of Becker Underwood's nematode division. "Our new Nemasys range, like other biological
pest controls, is available direct from mail order companies but we want garden centre customers to be reminded of these
natural alternatives to chemicals in-store. Gardeners will now be able to see the advantages of biological controls more
easily."
Common pests like slugs, vine weevil, whitefly, greenfly, caterpillars, chafer grubs and spider mite have all been
controlled naturally and organically in commercial nurseries for years, but the amateur gardener has only been able to
find out about them by reading books and gardening magazines and then seeking out a mail order company.
With Just Green's eye-catching Natural Born Killers display unit gardeners will be reminded that they have safe
alternatives to chemicals. So simple to use, gardeners will be able to match the pest they want to control with the pest
control cards, fill in their address on the product card, and present it to the cashier at the till. Within 10 days Just
Green will deliver fresh product direct to the customer's door. All products come with clear user instructions and
customers will be able to choose from single treatment products or programme products that will treat pests efficiently
and economically over a number of weeks.
Organic pest controls work by targeting pests with their natural enemies. These come in the form of predators, parasites
and bacteria. To control slugs, vine weevil, leather jackets or chaffer grubs for instance the gardener would use
nematodes. Already present in the soil Nemaslug and Nemasys introduce extra nematodes to combat the pests and once their
job is complete the nematodes die back to their natural numbers. The process is effective, safe to use, is not harmful to
children, pets or wildlife.
To find out more and order, contact Just Green, Unit 14 Springfield Road, Springfield Industrial Estate, Burnham on
Crouch, Essex, CM0 8AU. Tel: 01621 785088. www.just-green.com
[top]
New Nematode range unveiled at open day
Becker Underwood's new range of nematode pest control products for the home and garden market, under the brand name
Nemasys, were unveiled recently to journalists and customers at an open day held at the Littlehampton (West Sussex)
production facility.
The new look Nemasys range includes a new nematode for Nemasys Vine Weevil Killer, which operates at lower temperatures,
giving it an extended outdoor season, together with new products that target chafer grubs and leatherjackets. The new
look Nemasys range will still be spearheaded by Nemaslug, the top selling nematode slug killer that is finding favour
with an increasing number of gardeners throughout the UK.
The open day included presentations on pests and pest control by Andrew Halstead of the RHS and David Glen, formerly of
Long Ashton Research Station, as well as a tour of the state of the art nematode production facility.
Dr Graeme Gowling, general manager of Becker Underwood's European operations said, "This is an exciting time in the
development and use of nematode products. As more people question the use of chemicals in the garden and gardeners opt
to use more natural pest control products, we now have the answer to four key garden pests."
The nematodes in the Nemasys range are natural enemies of the target pest and are an effective, natural biological control
method for use both indoors and outside.
Safety for pets and wildlife was highlighted at the open day by Leigh Selway of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.
Referring to a recent case where a guide dog died after eating slug pellets, Leigh said, "We have first hand experience of
the devastating effect that slug pellets can have on the health of our dogs. People do not always follow instructions and
accidents will happen but with pet safe, natural alternatives available, future deaths can be easily avoided."
| Product | Size |
| Nemaslug Slug Killer | 40m2 |
| Nemaslug Slug Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Vine weevil Killer | 12m2 |
| Nemasys Vine weevil Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Leatherjacket Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer | 100m2 |
| Nemasys Chafer Grub Killer | 20m2 |
Adam Reynolds of the Apuldram Centre in Apuldram Lane, Fishbourne is responsible for applying Littlehampton-based Becker
Underwood's products, Nemaslug and Nemasys, killers of slugs and vine weevil respectively to the centre's plants and
produce that they sell to the public.
Says horticultural instructor, Richard Manning, "When Becker Underwood approached us to endorse their products in Garden
Answers we were only too happy to help. Adam had no hesitation in volunteering to take part in the photo shoot. In fact
he even came in on his day off."
The Apuldram Centre, which uses as few chemicals as possible in growing plants, has been using Nemaslug and Nemasys since
last year to combat slugs and vine weevil and they have noticed a marked change in damage to their crops. Says Richard,
"Last year the main plants affected by vine weevil were primulas and mint and this year they are excellent thanks to
Nemasys."
Located in Apuldram Lane, Fishbourne, the centre's objective is to provide meaningful day care to adults who have
learning disabilities with the emphasis on having a job for which they receive a very modest salary. The centre offers
horticultural work, both on site and out on contract gardening jobs, plus domestic work, which results in the production
of their own cakes, jams, marmalade for the on site shop. The horticultural side is very active, proving bedding plants,
cut flowers, herb plants, shrubs and herbaceous plants. Apuldram also produce a large range of vegetables and salad
products throughout the year.
"We used these two products because they are both effective and safe to use," adds Richard.
The nematodes in Nemasys are natural enemies of the vine weevil larvae and are an effective, natural biological control
method for use both indoors and outside.
Vine weevil larvae attack the roots of the plant, so a drench of nematodes on the garden during August or September
(mid-October if the weather is mild whilst the soil temperature is above 12C (54F)) will kill the larvae, without posing
any risk to pets, wildlife or children. For indoor plants or greenhouses, nematodes can be applied at any time.
Nemasys is a unique natural product - the beneficial nematodes it contains are natural enemies of vine weevil - and
nothing else. These microscopic worms are already present in the soil in small numbers. Nemasys adds more into the soil
and once their work is completed they die back to natural background numbers. As well as being highly effective the
nematodes are not harmful to children, pets and wildlife, leave no chemical residues in the soil and will never become
pests themselves.
[top]
School children on pest control
Young gardeners at Georgian Gardens Community County Primary School in Rustington are learning all about biological pest
control as a safe means of protecting their plants, by using nematodes (Nemaslug to kill slugs and Nemasys to kill vine
weevil) and watching a recent Blue Peter programme that told them just how nematodes worked.
"We had an awful problem with both slugs and vine weevil last year and so we had to do something, but without using slug
pellets or chemicals," said teacher, Deirdre Carolin who is responsible for the young gardeners. "We are glad to report
that we have not had a sighting of either a slug or vine weevil this year since using nematodes, which means that all our
plants are in tact. When we lose plants it makes the children unhappy and so nematodes work for us."
When Sue Gibb of Becker Underwood, the Littlehampton based company that produces the nematode products visited the
children to see how well their plants were doing they gleefully told her about the Blue Peter programme and how the
people who looked after the Blue Peter Garden used nematodes to control slugs. They told her how small the nematodes
were and how they worked.
"The children were very knowledgeable about the nematodes and were clearly delighted that the slimy slugs and evil
weevils had been dealt with," added Sue Gibb. "It's great to see their enthusiasm and to know that our products are
helping them in their garden."
[top]
Journalists and horticulturalists see where 50 trillion Nematodes are produced each year
Nearly one hundred journalists and horticulturalists descended on the largest nematode production facility in the world,
at Becker Underwood in Littlehampton, West Sussex, yesterday (Tuesday 28th February) to hear and see how nematodes are
being successfully used in pest control. Scientific research, first hand commercial experience and tours of the facility
and a nearby herb grower formed the core of the day, showing how nematodes were being used and the benefits to home and
garden users.
Dr. Albert Ester of PPO (Applied Plant Research), Lelystad, Holland shared his research results on different forms of
pest control and concluded that nematodes, as in Nemaslug, were effective and economical in use. He also reported on the
withdrawal of slug pellets in Holland, where Mesurol/Draza (containing methiocarb) had been banned since January 2003 and
metaldehyde pellets would not be allowed after 2006.
“In addition, there are concerns about leaching of the active ingredient in slug pellets into the groundwater” said Dr
Ester.
Dr. Ester explained how successful Dutch growers had been using Nemaslug. Applying slug control in commercial situations
is a lengthy business but Dr. Ester said that it was much easier to apply nematodes because they only needed to be applied
three times a season whereas for slug pellets they had to use 10 applications per season on Brussels sprouts. Enhanced
results had also been achieved when Nemaslug was applied early in the season.
David Morris of Golden Plain Marketing followed Dr. Ester’s presentation by showing the audience how successful his
company was at using nematodes to protect that all time favourite of slugs, the lettuce. With a zero tolerance policy on
slug damage and customers including the biggest supermarkets in the UK, Nemaslug had become the clear choice slug control.
Dr Graeme Gowling, European general manager for Becker Underwood added, “It is clear that Nemaslug is becoming the slug
control of choice in many commercial situation. As well as being highly effective, it is economical in use and avoids the
environmental disadvantages of using chemicals.”
Dr Gowling also explained how homeowners across the UK were now using Nemaslug and other nematode products to control
high profile garden pest such as slugs and vine weevils. During questions it became clear that even greater results could
be achieved when applied early in the season, before the slugs had a chance to attack the crops.
As well as the presentations, visitors toured the impressive nematode plant that produces 50 trillion nematodes a year,
which are shipped worldwide and nearby organic herb grower, VHB Humber, which produces 18m pot herbs for major
supermarkets in the UK, together with other salad crops. The company uses biological pest control using Nemasys products
produced by Becker Underwood.
“Nemaslug is proven to be effective. You just have to look at the success of the commercial growers to see that,”
concluded Dr Gowling. “It seems to me only a matter of time before the rest of Europe follows the Dutch lead and bans
metaldehyde slug pellets.”
[top]
Nothing but the best in gardening for Arundel Castle
As part of their organic gardening regime to grow the best vegetables for Arundel Castle’s household dining tables, head
gardener Gerry Kelsey and assistant head gardener, Isobel McKinley, use nematodes in their natural pest control regime.
Gardening with nature, Isobel introduces millions more nematodes to combat slugs. When they have done their job the
nematodes then die back to their natural numbers.
Isobel had quite a problem with slugs and snails in the cold frames where she grows her salad crops, but by using
nematodes she didn’t have so many lacey leaves and she noticed that the snails stayed away.
Being down the road from nematode producer, Becker Underwood, Isobel often works with the company’s scientists to see how
nematodes can help her pest control. Recently she took part in a successful trial to control scale insects.
“We grow organic fruit and vegetables for the household in just over an acre of reclaimed walled garden,” says Isobel,
“and as Her Grace would like to be completely organic throughout the estate, we are always looking at ways to achieve her
objective.”
The vegetable garden was reclaimed from an unused area in 1994 and since that time it has evolved and developed into a
beautiful part of Arundel Castle’s grounds. In its walled and enclosed garden on top of Arundel hill opposite the
cathedral, it is almost a secret garden. Growing in a four year cycle, they decide what kind of vegetables they should
grow in consultation with the Castle’s chef and they also take care to make sure the gardens are visually appealing to
their many thousands of visitors. Isobel uses various biological controls and companion planting as well as introducing
hedgehogs and encouraging natural predators. This is common sense organic gardening without chemicals.
[top]
Chelsea silver
A stand sponsored by Becker Underwood, the Littlehampton producer of nematodes under the Nemaslug and Nemasys branding,
has scooped a silver medal at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. Becker Underwood sponsored the organic organisation, HDRA’s,
stand called ‘Organic Food for All’ in the Life Long Learning section at the show.
Celebrity chef James Martin launched the display. The ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’ star was keen to support HDRA’s Organic Food
for All exhibit/project because he is a strong believer in organic food. The project aims to train 100 mentors across the
UK to help complete beginners have a go at growing their own vegetables and fruit.
This year’s exhibit, which was designed by Rebecca Warren, a HDRA volunteer from Kent, portrays how people from all walks
of life can learn how to grow their own fresh food. Three large windows demonstrate what can be achieved at different
levels – by beginners, experienced gardeners acting as mentors and thriving community projects.
Says Becker Underwood’s European general manager, Dr. Graeme Gowling, “To be associated with HDRA winning medals at
Chelsea is wonderful. It is a fantastic achievement on their part and we are proud to be sponsoring them.”
“Last year Nemasys sponsored HDRA with their award-winning first ever garden at Chelsea,’ says Graeme, “and as our
products support organic gardening and the work of HDRA, we had no hesitation in supporting them at Chelsea again this
year.”
[top]
Press Information
Enquiries from the media should be addressed to Sue Hinton or David Saunderson of DSH PR on 01252 408820, or email
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