Home and garden pests

Most entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) products are developed for agricultural and horticultural pest control. They are ideal but underutilized tools when it comes to pest control around the home, garden and landscapes. EPNs are safe to handle and apply in areas where children and pets play. They can be used on vegetables and on fruiting trees and bushes. EPNs have some specifcity to host targets and compatibility with other control tools. Lower levels of effcacy are acceptable in most home, garden and landscape situations, and products are often cost-effective options. There are ample opportunities to increase the use of EPNs in the built environment. This includes established markets for home pests as well as those with susceptibilities established in agricultural production systems. Perhaps the most exciting prospect is the expansion of use to address previously untested pests. With growing urban populations and an increasing appreciation of the benefts of fresh fruits and vegetables, consumption of home-grown and community garden produce has expanded over time. Spurred by a post-pandemic citizenry with improved awareness of their own personal responsibility toward sustainability and resilience, this trend will likely continue to gain momentum. Arguably, the most signifcant increases in EPN use could be in our towns and cities.