Carrot Root Fly Killer Nematodes

What Are Carrot Root Flies?

The Carrot Root Fly (Psila rosae) can be a severe pest to Carrot crops. Adult Carrot Root Fly emerge from pupae in the soil from April and will then lay fresh eggs. Those eggs will hatch into creamy coloured larvae after about 7 days, depending on the weather. The larvae will move through the soil to the Carrot plants and start feeding on the roots, eventually burrowing into the Carrot roots forming mines. The first symptoms are a reddening of the Carrot leaves, which start to wilt. The larvae will leave carrots with extensive damage and disfiguration. 

How Do I Identify Carrot Root Flies?

The Carrot Root Fly is small, measuring 5-8mm in length, and has a black body with a yellow head. The flies have red eyes and pale yellow legs, with clear coloured wings. Eggs are laid in the soil surface around the Carrot plants.

What Are Carrot Root Fly Killer Nematodes & How Can They Help?

For control of Carrot Root Fly larvae, apply our Carrot Root Fly Killer, which contains microscopic nematodes that can be watered into soil and raised beds. The nematodes find and enter the Carrot Root Fly larvae, releasing a bacteria that kills them. The nematodes then use the body of the larvae to reproduce in, releasing more nematodes into the surrounding area. Carrot Root Fly nematodes will stay active in the soil for about 3-4 weeks, and may need reapplying to counter any fresh infestations of Carrot Root Fly.

Adult Carrot Root Flies can also be monitored and caught on our Carrot Fly Sticky Trap Kits.

When Should I Apply The Nematodes?

There are normally two generations of Carrot Root fly a year. For best results apply Carrot Root Fly Killer nematodes from May to June and August to October. 

How Many Nematodes Do I Need?

Carrot Root Fly Killer nematodes are supplied in four pack sizes:

- Carrot Root Fly Killer 25 million to treat an area up to 50m²

- Carrot Root Fly Killer 50 million to treat an area up to 100m²

- Carrot Root Fly Killer 250 million to treat an area up to 500m²

- Carrot Root Fly Killer 500 million to treat an area up to 1000m²

What Conditions Do The Nematodes Require?

Choose a humid or wet day to apply your Carrot Root Fly Killer Nematodes. Nematodes are UV-sensitive and will not survive long when exposed to bright, sunny conditions. Apply the nematodes early in the morning or early in the evening in order to utilise the optimum humidity levels. 

How Do I Apply The Nematodes?

Carrot Root Fly Killer nematodes are watered into the soil or raised beds. Apply the nematodes to moist soil and keep it moist after application. This helps the nematodes move in the soil to locate the Carrot Root Fly larvae. 

(Please note the following instruction measurements apply to the 50m² pack)

1. First open and empty the contents of your 25 million sachet of nematodes into a bucket or container of 2.5 litres of water and mix thoroughly.

2. Next, fill your watering can or sprayer (hand held sprayers should suffice, with filters removed - or consider using our Nema Super Sprayer for optimum nematode application) with the mixed 2.5 litres of nematode concentrate and add another 5.5 litres of water so you are left with 8 litres of nematode solution.

3. Finally, water the soil or raised carrot beds.

Ensure the soil area is moist for up to 2 weeks after application. 

Full instructions are supplied on delivery.

Can I Store The Nematodes?

You can store unopened nematode packs in a fridge but it is best to ensure you apply your nematodes as soon as possible for the best results.

Carrot Root Fly Killer nematodes are harmless to humans, pets and wildlife, and safe to apply to edible plants.