Gardeners wanted to test nematodes on their infested box hedges
If this new pest is decimating your ornamental hedges, good news – a box tree moth product test is planned, and it’s environmentally friendly. BASF and GreenGardener.co.uk are looking for gardeners to test an environmentally friendly product to tackle pests.
Box tree moths arrived on our shores in 2007 and are spreading north at an alarming rate. For instance, they reached Newcastle this year! The caterpillars leave trails of defoliated hedging in their wake. Nemasys Fruit and Veg, made by BASF, contains millions of microscopic nematodes. These tiny worms live naturally in garden soil and prey on the caterpillars.
Spray nematodes onto damaged hedges
The tracking map above shows the spread of the moth. Gardeners in hot spots can apply to be part of the box tree moth product test by sending photos of their damaged hedging to [email protected].
The nematodes arrive in a fibrous paste, and you mix them with water. Then they are sprayed onto damaged hedges during March and April. This is when box tree caterpillars are getting ready to pupate into moths.
If you’re outside a hot spot but have seen caterpillars or moths in your garden, email a photo and where you live. BASF and GreenGardener.co.uk will add this new data to their tracking map. The box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) is native to the Far East and India. However, it is thriving in Britain, and its range is expanding rapidly.
How box tree moths damage plants
Moths lay eggs underneath box (Buxus) leaves. The caterpillars then rapidly eat the leaves of box hedging and topiary. For the Nemasys nematodes to work, apply them late in the evening (UV light kills them) and under high humidity, such as after a rainy day. Nemasys Fruit and Veg are available online only, as they are living creatures and must be used fresh. Buy Nemasys and other nematode products from www.greengardener.co.uk. Read more on pests and diseases.
