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When to apply Milky Spore for the first time?

Posted by natureperson 5b (My Page) on
Wed, Jul 6, 05 at 10:14

Is it too late in the season to apply MS for the first time? I didn't see a lot of grubs this season, but so far I've seen one Japanese Beetle. In past years I've seen lots of both, so I'm thinking they're here, and I'm wondering if I have grub damage to my lawn.

Once the grubs turn to JBs is it too late to apply MS, or can I go ahead and do it now?


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: When to apply Milky Spore for the first time?

MS is not an insecticide. It's a naturally occuring bacterium that needs to be inoculated into the soil system, usually in the late summer or fall of the year. It does NOT work immediately, but can take up to 5 years! Research indicates that 2 to 3 years is average, though that sure isn't what the sales people will tell you!! Also, MS is not effective in some area, though no one seems to know the precise reason why.

You can see grub damage to your lawn. You can also take a sharp shovel and dig up one foot square pieces of sod to examine underneath. If you have lots of grubs in those areas, it warrants some sort of treatment. MS, by the way, is only effective for JB grubs, and not other white grubs.

So, an application of MS now is pretty useless.

Here is a link that might be useful: Fact sheet


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RE: When to apply Milky Spore for the first time?

Thanks for the info.

Based on the bag, it says to put it down in spring, summer and fall. That's a lot, but if it only has to be done for a few years and then is good for several, I guess it's worth it.

Sometimes I wish I had a small yard.


 
 

 

 


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