What do nematicides do?

• A. They kill insects
• B. They deter pests
• C. They kill nematodes
• D. They kill rodents

Answer: (C)

Nematicides are pesticides that specifically target nematodes, the tiny soil-dwelling roundworms that feed on plant roots and can cause significant crop damage. They’re designed to kill these pests in the soil, rather than insects, rodents, or simply deterring pests. Some products are soil fumigants that blanket the entire root zone, while others are chemical nematicides applied as liquids or granules around plants. Because they act on nematodes in the soil, they aren’t appropriate for killing insects or rodents, and they’re not just repellents. As with any pesticide in Alberta, you must follow the label, use the appropriate license and safety precautions, and apply only as directed.