Beemaster's International Beekeeping Forum

BEEKEEPING LEARNING CENTER => NATURAL & ORGANIC BEEKEEPING METHODS => Topic started by: CJ on March 15, 2014, 10:32:04 pm

Title: Negative effect of nematodes???
Post by: CJ on March 15, 2014, 10:32:04 pm

Hi all,

We already have great populations of dung beetles (decreases flies and gastrointestinal stock parasites, increases water penetration and soil aeration, increases nutrient recycling) and rosette and seed-head weevils (Scotch thistle reduction) on our farm.
In keeping with the theme of using natural pest management strategies where possible, we were considering using nematodes to reduce the SHB numbers in our apiary, but I have concerns about the nematodes targeting the dung beetles and weevils.
I was wondering if anyone had any more information or experience they could share?

Cheers,
CJ

Title: Re: Negative effect of nematodes???
Post by: HomeSteadDreamer on March 16, 2014, 07:30:12 am

I don't have any information but would love to know the answer to your question.  I usually don't have too many SHB survive in the hive if I keep the oil trays with oil and a strong hive but a reduction in numbers would be nice for when I forget to change the tray or have a weak hive.  Hope someone has some knowledge on that.

Title: Re: Negative effect of nematodes???
Post by: Diogenes on June 13, 2014, 02:29:15 am

I cheat with respect to SHB and ants around the hive stands.

I use a heavy plastic liner with wood chips on top. The ground under the plastic is very heavily treated with sodium tetraborate (borax). Death to ants and SHB under the plastic. Not good for bees if they were in contact with it, however, the Borax under the plastic has presented no problems at all.